The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to a well-planned, coordinated and inclusive energy sector aimed at ensuring every Zambian has access to electricity by 2030, following the launch of the updated Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP) until 2030.
Speaking during the official launch at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote said the updated plan represents a deliberate and structured approach to national development, anchored on expanding electricity access as a key driver of economic transformation and improved livelihoods.
Mr. Chikote said the revised REMP goes beyond infrastructure expansion, providing a coordinated, data-driven framework designed to unlock Zambia’s economic potential while ensuring that no community is left behind. He noted that the plan aligns with national aspirations under Vision 2030 and global commitments such as Sustainable Development Goal 7 on universal access to modern energy.
According to the Minister, the plan reflects a shift from fragmented electrification efforts to a systematic and well-coordinated development pathway that guarantees efficiency, sustainability and maximum impact.
Approximately US$1.52 billion will be required to achieve universal access by 2030, underscoring the importance of strong partnerships between Government, the private sector and cooperating partners.
Mr. Chikote stressed that under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, the New Dawn Administration is prioritising policy clarity, strengthened regulation and transparency to attract investment into the energy sector. He added that the REMP should be viewed not only as a planning instrument, but also as an investment roadmap presenting structured and bankable opportunities.
Presidential Delivery Unit Head Kuso Kamwambi commended the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) for developing the updated plan and urged the institution to ensure its implementation aligns with Government’s preference for timely delivery, high quality standards and cost efficiency across all activities.
Ms. Kamwambi emphasised that the energy sector remains a critical enabler of national development and requires sustained support, noting that it is key to Zambia achieving targets in other sectors such as mining and agriculture.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary Ephraim Munshifwa said the updated REMP will provide a well-structured guide for all electrification activities as Government continues to expand the energy sector in a coordinated and sustainable manner.
And REA Chief Executive Officer Alex Mbumba said the institution is now firmly focused on execution and delivery of projects, with particular emphasis on reaching the “last mile” in electrification.
Eng. Mbumba disclosed that by the end of 2026, REA will implement a visualisation platform to enable the public to track and appreciate the progress of the plan’s implementation. He added that the REMP is designed not only to expand electricity access but also to create opportunities for citizens to actively participate in national development.
He further noted that the document has been made publicly available to enhance transparency and ensure it delivers measurable impact on rural electrification across the country.
Mr. Chikote called on stakeholders to align their investments with Government priorities to ensure electrification efforts are implemented in a coordinated manner that avoids duplication and maximises impact.
The Minister said the implementation of the plan is expected to significantly expand electricity access to households, schools and health facilities, while supporting agriculture, small enterprises and job creation. Improved access to energy will enhance service delivery and contribute to inclusive socio-economic development, particularly in rural communities.
He also commended the his ministry, the REA and all stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in developing the updated plan, describing the process as highly consultative and technically sound.
The Rural Electrification Master Plan can be accessed via the link below: