Low access to electricity in rural areas impediment to development – Mumba
By BARNABAS ZULU
MINISTRY of Energy Permanent Secretary, Peter Mumba, has expressed concern over the low levels of electricity access in rural areas, calling it a significant barrier to the country’s economic development.
Speaking at the launch of the Zambia Energy Demand Stimulation Incentive (ZEDSI) in Lusaka yesterday, Mr. Mumba revealed that only 33 percent of rural areas have access to electricity, leaving a deficit of approximately 66 percent.
“In Zambia, we have 33 percent electricity access in rural areas. This means that 66 percent of the population in these areas remain without electricity,” said Mr. Mumba. “This gap is a challenge that we need to address urgently in order to unlock the full potential of rural communities.”
To bridge this gap, Mr. Mumba emphasised the importance of investing in mini-grids, particularly solar-powered systems, which can provide reliable and affordable energy to rural households. He noted that such investments would not only improve electricity access but also drive economic growth by supporting schools, hospitals, and other vital community institutions.
The ZEDSI initiative, launched in support of President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to electrifying 1, 000 mining areas, aims to stimulate energy demand through the installation of 105 mini-grids across Zambia. The initiative is expected to positively impact the livelihoods of over 100, 000 people, with a focus on enhancing energy access in underserved rural communities.
Mr. Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, commended President Hichilema’s leadership on energy access.
“Through the Zambia Energy Demand Stimulation Incentive (ZEDSI), we will support the commercial viability of mini-grid projects and bolster rural economic development across the country,” Mr Ogunbiyi said.
“This initiative will accelerate the deployment of decentralised renewable energy solutions, benefiting thousands of Zambians.”
ZEDSI is implemented by Sustainable Energy for All, with financial support from The Rockefeller Foundation and the Global Alliance for People and Planet.
The initiative also enjoys backing from the European Union, the World Bank, and Beyond the Grid for Africa, which are all key partners in the mission to expand energy access across Zambia.
As part of its efforts, ZEDSI will deploy solar mini-grids to 105 priority sites, impacting about 30, 000 households directly and improving the quality of life for those in some of the most remote and underserved areas of the country.
Mr. Mumba called on both public and private sector players to work together on expanding energy infrastructure.
“The role of the private sector in driving mini-grid development is crucial, and we are excited to see how these partnerships will transform rural Zambia.
