U.S. and Zambian officials yesterday marked the official handover of $1.08 million (28 million kwacha) in green energy solar projects at Zambian Defense Force medical facilities, funded by the U.S. government.
The delegation included Zambian Permanent Secretary of Defense Norman Chipakupaku, U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Linnisa Wahid, Director General Medical Services Brigadier General Dr. Jackson Kasela, and representatives from all three branches of the Zambian Defense Force. They toured three completed sites in Lusaka: Arakan Camp Hospital, Zambian Air Force Hospital, and Charles J. Nyirenda Hospital.
With 34 defense medical facilities across Zambia now operating entirely on solar energy, the initiative enhances power reliability for vital medical services, benefiting not only Zambian soldiers and their families but also civilians—who make up 80 percent of the facilities’ users in some areas.
Permanent Secretary Chipakupaku emphasized the significant advantages these projects provide, especially in remote regions. Brigadier General Kasela highlighted the challenges posed by a historic drought, which forced medical procedures to rely on emergency lighting. The new solar systems, implemented through the U.S. Department of Defense’s HIV/AIDS Prevention Program, have revolutionized healthcare access during this energy crisis, ensuring 24/7 services.
In a symbolic gesture, Permanent Secretary Chipakupaku and U.S. Defense Attache Lieutenant Colonel Matt Yan cut the ribbon for the solar project at Charles J. Nyirenda Zambia National Service Hospital, reaffirming the U.S. government’s commitment to enhancing health and security in Zambia.
