Cross-Border Blackout Sparks Investigation

... Emergency systems safeguard public safety, no casualties reported despite widespread disruption

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia – A regional power outage that plunged Zambia and Zimbabwe into darkness on November 24, 2024, has prompted a joint investigation by authorities from both nations. The blackout disrupted business operations, domestic activities, and public services, although no injuries or fatalities were reported.

Zambia's Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, highlighted the role of backup systems in minimizing the impact of the outage. Emergency power supplies ensured critical facilities, such as hospitals, remained functional during the disruption.

“Key institutions relied on standby power to maintain essential operations, which helped avert significant risks,” Kawana explained during a press briefing.

In Lusaka, the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) restored power within 30 minutes, ensuring no medical procedures were affected. The Ministry of Health confirmed that its technical teams monitored health facilities nationwide to maintain service delivery.

Kawana added that officials from both Zambia and Zimbabwe are preparing a comprehensive report to determine the root cause of the blackout.

Peter Mumba, Permanent Secretary at Zambia’s Ministry of Energy, described the incident as a "grid disturbance" affecting the interconnected systems of the two countries. Senior officials, including members of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), oversaw ZESCO’s restoration efforts.

The power failure caused operational challenges at key mining sites, such as the Chinese-owned Chambeshi Mine and Mopani Mine’s Mindola Shaft in Kitwe. Some miners were briefly trapped underground but were safely evacuated after alternative power sources were deployed.

“The response from ZESCO, the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC), and Ndola Energy Company was swift, ensuring minimal disruption,” Mumba stated.

State utility ZESCO Limited prioritized restoring power to vital sectors, with Mumba commending its teams for their efficiency. He assured the public that measures are underway to reinforce grid reliability and prevent similar occurrences.

While power was quickly restored in Zambia, Zimbabwe’s recovery details remain unclear, raising questions about regional energy vulnerabilities.

Public dissatisfaction with frequent power outages has intensified. ZESCO’s Acting Managing Director, Justine Longo, addressed these concerns, emphasizing the utility’s commitment to stabilizing the grid.

Longo dismissed speculation linking the outage to low water levels at Kariba Dam, a shared hydroelectric source for the two countries. Instead, she pointed to technical issues in integrating smaller power plants into the grid as the likely cause.

“The challenges we face are operational, not related to water levels at Kariba. Our energy mix includes diverse sources feeding into the system,” Longo explained.

Zambia is currently expanding its energy infrastructure by incorporating renewable sources and enhancing smaller power stations. Longo warned that while daily load-shedding is limited to three to five hours, it could temporarily increase to seven hours until Zimbabwe’s grid connection is fully restored.

The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its reliance on robust backup systems to sustain healthcare operations during power failures. Assistant Director for Clinical Services, Dr. Richard Nsakanya, highlighted the effectiveness of solar panels and generators in maintaining uninterrupted service.

“Our three-tier backup approach ensures all medical facilities remain operational, even during prolonged outages,” Dr. Nsakanya said, adding that solar installations have further improved system reliability.

The Zambian government remains committed to addressing the country's energy challenges. Investigations into the regional blackout continue, with updates from energy officials expected in the coming days.