- 149 grid and off grid projects planned across all ten provinces.
- More than 52000 new electricity connections targeted for households and public institutions.
- Programme aligned with inclusive growth and sustainable energy development.
The Rural Electrification Authority has presented its 2026 Rural Electrification Plan to the Minister of Energy, outlining a nationwide programme aimed at accelerating access to electricity in rural and underserved areas.
The plan was presented by REA Board Chairperson Charles Matomola Mboma and Acting Chief Executive Officer Alex Mbumba to Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote. It sets out a pipeline of 149 projects to be implemented across all ten provinces, reinforcing government efforts to close the rural urban electrification gap.
According to the authority, the programme includes 125 grid development projects alongside 24 off grid initiatives. This approach supports the expansion of the national electricity network while deploying sustainable energy solutions in remote communities where grid extension is not immediately viable.
Once completed, the projects are expected to deliver 52730 new electricity connections nationwide. Beneficiaries will include 655 schools, 89 rural health centres, 80 public facilities, 53 traditional palaces and more than 51000 households.
REA said the plan is aligned with national development priorities focused on inclusive growth, balanced regional development and universal access to electricity. The authority highlighted the role of rural electrification in improving service delivery, stimulating local economies and supporting climate resilient and sustainable development.
During the presentation, the Minister of Energy urged the REA team to intensify its efforts, noting that rural areas continue to lag behind in electrification levels and require accelerated implementation to meet national targets.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
