President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a challenge to stakeholders in the energy industry, urging them to collaborate with the government in tackling obstacles that hinder investment.
President Hichilema acknowledged that the government has already made regulatory and legal adjustments in the sector to enhance its attractiveness.
However, he urged the private sector to promptly put into action the agreed-upon measures.
Among the reforms introduced by the government in the energy sector are net metering, blending tariffs, and the open access policy.
President Hichilema made these remarks at the 2024 Energy Forum for Africa Conference in Lusaka, where the focus was on exploring investment opportunities in the energy sector in Zambia and Africa.
He encouraged attendees to aim high and consider investing in energy infrastructure like the Tanzania-Zambia interconnector.
President Hichilema highlighted the UPND government’s efforts to address issues in various mines and secure debt restructuring agreements since taking office.
He announced plans to inaugurate a new mine in Mumbwa district on Friday, emphasizing the government’s dedication to enhancing productivity and the well-being of the populace.
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote emphasized the ministry’s commitment to resolving Zambia’s energy shortfall.
Chikote expressed confidence that leveraging platforms like the conference would lead to enduring solutions and a significant transformation in the energy sector.
Conference Convener Hope Chanda commended the government for implementing measures to enhance the energy sector through policy reforms and other initiatives.
Meanwhile, conference sponsors such as Zesco, Africa Greenco, and Stanbic Bank reaffirmed their dedication to supporting the energy sector.
