Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Minister Charles Milupi has implored the private sector to explore various investment opportunities available in Zambia’s energy sector.
Speaking at Continental Energy Investment Forum 2024 in South Africa, Mr. Milupi said the Government has made key pronouncements aimed at promoting private sector investments and that these include approval of open access, exemption of mini-grids of up to 5 megawatts from regulation and net-metering, among others.
Mr. Milupi said a licensing system was launched in June this year to streamline the licensing process for power projects.
“African countries have identical geographical, social and economic terrains and therefore experience similar challenges in meeting climate change and energy supply targets,” said Mr. Milupi.
Mr. Milupi urged African countries to join hands and leverage on each other’s expertise and experience to ensure successful implementation of workable interventions now that the continent has made significant progress in terms of infrastructure development especially with commitment to continue improving its transportation, energy, water and digital networks.
He is of the view that infrastructure is key to boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and reducing poverty and that with the right investments and reforms, Africa can build modern infrastructure needed to boost trade and create jobs.
And Sub-Sahara Trade Hub Director Ronnie Nyambe says Zambia’s renewable energy sector presents substantial opportunities for investment and development, particularly in hydropower, solar, and potentially wind energy, contributing to both energy security and sustainable development goals.
By Chimba Chilopa
