Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote has issued firm and results-oriented guidance to the newly inducted Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Board, chaired by Mr. Charles Matomola Mboma, calling for decisive strategic leadership to accelerate energy access, strengthen governance, and position rural electrification as a key driver of economic growth.
Speaking during the Board’s induction in Lusaka today, Mr. Chikote congratulated members on their appointment and thanked them for accepting to serve the nation. He emphasised that the Board’s mandate lies at the heart of Zambia’s national development agenda and must translate into tangible outcomes that deliver reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity to rural communities throughout their tenure of office.
The Minister observed that the Board assumes office at a defining moment for the energy sector, as Government implements far-reaching reforms aimed at repositioning the private sector as the engine of economic growth. In this context, he stressed that rural electrification should no longer be viewed solely as a social intervention, but as a catalyst for productive enterprise, value addition, job creation and inclusive development. He urged the Board, under the leadership of Mr. Mboma, to provide strategic direction that actively supports private sector participation, innovative financing models and partnerships to accelerate energy access in rural and peri-urban areas.
Mr. Chikote advised Board members to familiarise themselves with the REA Act, which he described as their principal guide in engagements with management. He further made it clear that the Authority, like other public institutions, has ambitious targets, and that Board members will be required to sign performance contracts against which their performance over the tenure will be assessed.
The Minister identified the strengthening of procurement and project delivery systems as a critical priority for the Board’s term of office. He stated that expeditious procurement processes, timely implementation, cost reflectivity and uncompromising quality standards are imperatives. He warned that delays and cost overruns undermine public confidence and constrain the country’s ability to scale up rural electrification, and urged the Board to exercise firm oversight to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, transparently and in a manner that delivers maximum value for money.
He further informed the Board that REA has a number of pending activities requiring approval, including the launch of the Rural Electrification Master Plan and the Rural Electrification Fund operating guidelines. Mr. Chikote also directed the Board to begin preparations for the development of a new strategic plan, noting that the current plan will expire in 2026 and that continuity across Board tenures is essential.
The Minister noted that the Board is assuming office at a time when the country is navigating an energy crisis driven by climatic variability, infrastructure constraints and rising demand. He said this situation calls for a forward-looking, adaptive and solutions-oriented Board throughout its tenure, working closely with management to mitigate supply risks, prioritise resilience and ensure rural electrification programmes remain responsive to the current energy landscape.
Mr. Chikote further emphasised the need to enhance energy access through diversification.
He said rural electrification programmes must increasingly leverage renewable and alternative energy sources such as solar, mini-hydro, biomass and hybrid systems to complement the national grid. He noted that diversification is not only a response to the energy crisis, but a strategic investment in sustainability, energy security and climate resilience.
On governance, Mr. Chikote highlighted the importance of effective Board–management relations anchored on mutual respect, clarity of roles and open communication.
He said good governance thrives where Boards provide strategic direction, policy guidance and oversight, while allowing management the operational space to deliver, a balance he expects to be upheld under the leadership of the new Chairperson.
The Minister urged Board members to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity and a strong sense of national purpose for the duration of their tenure, noting that the decisions they make will shape the pace and quality of rural development for years to come.
He assured the Board of Government’s continued support and expressed confidence in the impact of their stewardship under Mr. Mboma’s chairmanship.
The newly appointed REA Board brings together expertise and representation from key professional bodies and public institutions, including the Economic Association of Zambia, the Engineering Institute of Zambia, the Local Government, the Attorney General’s office, Non Governmental Organization (NGOs), Ministry of Energy as well as sector experts, a composition expected to enhance balanced decision-making and strengthen institutional oversight.
