Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote, has directed ZESCO Limited to strictly adhere to the agreed seven-hour electricity load management schedule across the country.
The Minister says this is to ensure predictability and minimize disruptions to households, businesses, and essential services.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting convened by the Minister, and attended by ZESCO Board Chairperson and Board of Directors, Energy Regulation Board (ERB) Director General and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) and was focused on addressing public concerns over deviations from the announced load management schedule and reviewing measures to enhance power supply stability.
“We have listened to the concerns of the public regarding inconsistencies in the load management schedule. ZESCO should ensure strict compliance with the agreed seven-hour schedule and improve communication with consumers regarding any necessary,” said Mr. Chikote in statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He has warned that a poor work culture in service delivery will not be tolerated and further cautioned against political interference in electricity load management, stressing that decisions must be based on technical expertise and the national interest rather than external influences.
Mr. Chikote has also urged ZESCO management to be proactive in their decision-making, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in addressing the country’s energy challenges.
And ZESCO Board Chairperson Vickson N’cube and Managing Director Justin Loongo assured the Minister of ZESCO’s full commitment to adhering to the directive and further assured that all new projects under ZESCO will be delivered on time, in line with the company’s goal of improving electricity generation and distribution efficiency.
This is contained in a statement issued to RCV News by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Bob Sianjalika.
By Margaret Mwanza
