By 
Energy Minister, Makozo Chikote, has reportedly held a high-level consultative meeting with 20 power development companies as Government intensifies oversight and coordination of projects in the national energy pipeline.
The meeting, which also drew participation from the Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, Kuso Kamwambi, and Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary–Budget, Mwaka Mukubesa, focused on strengthening project delivery, boosting collaboration and improving information flow across the energy sector.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Chikote said Zambia’s current power deficit—now exceeding 1,600 megawatts and driven largely by climate change—required urgent, coordinated interventions.
He noted that the solar, hydro and coal projects presented by developers offered “a credible and timely response” to the country’s rising energy demand.
Chikote reiterated government’s earlier projection that Zambia expects to add 2,610MW of new generation capacity between 2025 and 2026, a development that will exceed current national requirements and position the country for a future power surplus.
Read more: Amsons Group, Exergy Africa partner to boost Zambia’s power generation by 1,300 megawatts
He said expanding the country’s installed capacity beyond the current 3,800MW is essential, as demand has already surpassed 2,400MW and is rapidly approaching 3,000MW.
The Minister urged developers to remain engaged throughout the implementation process and not disengage once Power Purchase Agreements are secured. He further directed technocrats to ensure stronger coordination, timely updates and clear communication on the progress of all projects to accelerate execution.
Chikote also underscored the need for a clear public–private collaboration roadmap outlining roles, responsibilities and development timelines. Such a framework, he said, would align stakeholders and support efficient delivery of the power pipeline.
He added that Zambia’s expanding energy capacity—anchored by strong partnerships—will reinforce the country’s position as a regional power hub and bolster national development priorities, including the target of producing 3 million tonnes of copper annually.
During the meeting, power developers cited several hurdles slowing project timelines, including limited incentives for hydropower, complex multi-agency land acquisition procedures and statutory delays such as lengthy approval and legal review processes.
Chikote assured developers that government was addressing these bottlenecks and is considering establishing a one-stop-shop or dedicated task force to streamline processes, fast-track land clearances and accelerate project implementation.
He said the measures form part of broader reforms aimed at creating a more predictable, efficient and investor-friendly energy sector.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments