- Rural electrification rises from 8% to 34% since 2021.
- K15 million invested in Luampa District grid expansion.
- Connection fees cut from K4,860 to K300 under national programmes.
Zambia’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding equitable access to electricity following the commissioning of the Nalwei Lui Grid Extension Project in Luampa District. Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote said the project represents a major milestone in efforts to improve rural electrification and support inclusive economic development.
He noted that since 2021, targeted interventions have helped increase rural electrification rates from 8% to 34%, reflecting sustained progress in addressing long standing disparities in access to electricity.
The minister added that Western Province has recorded significant gains, with 12 grid extension projects completed between 2023 and 2025 through the Rural Electrification Authority. Additional projects are currently under implementation as part of a broader national rollout.
Government is also adopting a diversified electrification strategy that combines grid expansion with off grid technologies, including solar mini grids, to reach underserved and remote communities.
The Nalwei Lui project forms part of a wider plan to extend power infrastructure closer to households, public institutions and businesses. Authorities expect this approach to strengthen service delivery while unlocking local economic activity in rural areas.
Efforts to improve affordability are being implemented through initiatives such as the National Energy Advancement and Transformation programme and the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Transformation programme. Under these schemes, electricity connection fees have been reduced from K4,860 to K300 to encourage uptake.
The Rural Electrification Authority has invested K15 million in the Nalwei Lui project. According to REA Chief Executive Officer Alex Mbumba, the funding covered the construction of transmission lines and the electrification of households and key public facilities.
He said the project prioritises critical infrastructure including schools and health centres, while also extending supply to surrounding communities through a mix of grid and off grid solutions.
Mr Mbumba urged residents to take advantage of the reduced connection fees by applying to ZESCO, noting that increased access to electricity is expected to enhance education and healthcare services while supporting the growth of small scale enterprises.
He also called for community involvement in protecting infrastructure from theft and vandalism. Plans are underway to roll out a fourth phase of the project in 2026 targeting the Nalwei area.
Traditional leaders in Luampa District welcomed the development, describing it as a transformative intervention that will improve livelihoods and expand access to essential services.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
