EU investors eye Luapula as govt chases industrialization agenda

Government says the growing interest from the European Union (EU) and international investors in Luapula Province reflects increasing confidence in President Hakainde Hichilema’s agenda to industrialize the country.

The agenda focuses on value addition and the green economy, according to Acting Luapula Province Permanent Secretary, Evans Sikabbubba.

Sikabbubba made the remarks during a courtesy call by a delegation comprising Musamu Resources Limited, the EU and ZCCM Investments Holdings on Thursday morning in Mansa.

He said government was actively attracting both local and foreign investment into the province.

“Luapula remains richly endowed with manganese and other critical minerals,” Sikabbubba stated.

He noted that inadequate industrial power had affected value addition, forcing some minerals to be processed outside the province.

“Government is addressing the challenge through major energy projects, including the proposed 244 Megawatt Kalungwishi Hydro Power Project in Kawambwa District,” he said.

Sikabbubba further said the recently commissioned Mabumba 50 Megawatt Solar Power Plant by President Hakainde Hichilema was already supplying 14 Megawatts into the national grid.

He said the plant was expected to reach full capacity by the end of July this year and that the Presidential Solar Initiative would contribute 40 Megawatts across Luapula’s 20 constituencies.

“This is creating a strong foundation for industrial growth and job creation,” Sikabbubba said.

He added that the developments signaled stronger alignment between international partners and Zambia’s industrialization strategy.

Musamu Resources Founder and Executive Chairman Sixtus Mulenga said the EU’s visit followed engagements under the EU-Zambia partnership on critical minerals.

Mulenga noted that Musamu Resources planned to transform the Luongo Manganese Mine in Chipili District into a hub for value addition, agriculture and the green economy.

He mentioned that the plan was in line with the Government’s development agenda.

“The project is expected to promote industrialization, technology transfer and youth employment while attracting more European investment into Luapula Province,” Mulenga said.

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