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The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the stabilization of Zambia’s energy sector, following its US$292 million grant earmarked for the Zambia–East Africa Interconnector Project (ZTIP).
World Bank Lead Environmental and Social Specialist for the Africa East Region, Sofia De Abreu Ferreira, emphasized that the interconnector was a cornerstone for regional integration.
According to a statement issued in Kasama on Wednesday by Northern Province Principal Public Relations Officer, Sandra Mulenga, Ferreira made the remarks during a courtesy call on Provincial Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu.
She noted that the project represented a critical milestone for energy security, not only for Zambia and East Africa but also for the continent’s broader aspirations toward a unified power pool.
“The World Bank remains dedicated to fostering sustainable energy markets that can withstand climate shocks and meet growing industrial demand,” Ferreira stated.
She also commended the Zambian government for implementing strong policy measures that will support successful execution of the project.
Zambia–Tanzania Interconnector Project (ZTIP) Manager, Hilner Mucapani, confirmed that the project remained on track for completion in 2028.
“The government, through ZESCO, has been working tirelessly to finalize technical benchmarks,” Mucapani said.
On environmental matters, he highlighted that ZESCO was investing considerable resources to ensure biodiversity protection and community resettlement were handled in line with international best practices.
Meanwhile, Mpundu assured the delegation that the provincial administration was fully prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.
“For Zambia to become a prosperous middle-income nation, we must be power-sufficient and this is a great milestone and a decisive step in the right direction for our economic stability,” he said.
Mpundu further stated that the Zambia–Tanzania Interconnector Project was a transformative infrastructure initiative designed to link the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) with the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).
He added that by establishing this high-voltage “energy highway,” Zambia would position itself as a central hub for regional power trade—exporting surplus electricity and importing power during periods of domestic deficit.
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