In a significant move, President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to favorably assess ZESCO’s application for an electricity tariff adjustment. This request comes as the state-owned utility seeks to modify tariffs across its Residential, Commercial, and Maximum Demand customer categories during the current emergency period.
During the opening of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU) Forum in Lusaka, the President emphasized his close monitoring of ZESCO’s proposal and the public’s reactions to it. He expressed hope that the ERB would consider the implications of these tariff increases, particularly for small businesses that could be adversely affected.
The PDU, established last year to tackle delivery-related challenges, aims to enhance the effectiveness and timeliness of services provided to the Zambian people. The forum showcased the progress made in key sectors such as Agriculture, Mining, Health, Energy, and Education, aligning with the government’s priority areas.
President Hichilema noted that prior to the United Party for National Development (UPND) government, service delivery in Zambia was sluggish. The PDU was initiated to streamline processes and improve responsiveness to the needs of citizens. He identified persistent issues within public service that hinder timely delivery, stressing the need for a unified agenda among ministries and other entities to effectively serve the populace.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa expressed enthusiasm for participating in the forum, which brought together traditional leaders, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, cooperating partners, and media, all focused on advancing national development.
The establishment of the PDU reflects the New Dawn Administration’s commitment to delivering for Zambians. The forum serves as a vital platform for reporting progress, sharing experiences, and collaboratively addressing challenges. Through the PDU, the government has adopted innovative approaches such as real-time project monitoring, data-driven decision-making, and efforts to reduce bureaucratic delays while enhancing institutional capacity. Additionally, the initiative has led to the formation of ministerial and provincial delivery units that embrace PDU’s principles.
