100MW Solar Project Commissioned

...As Hichilema Mocks Detractors, Declares "Zambia Is Back on Track"

By Francis Maingaila 

CHISAMBA, Zambia – June 30, 2025

By Francis Maingaila

The Zambian government has commissioned a 100-megawatt solar power plant in Chisamba District, issuing a sharp rebuttal to critics and asserting that the country’s energy future is being rebuilt on the foundation of discipline, strategy, and credible leadership.

The plant—currently the largest of its kind in the country—represents a bold step toward renewable energy development and national energy security.

President Hakainde Hichilema, officiating at the commissioning, stated that his administration is replacing decades of neglect, corruption, and unfulfilled promises with practical, people-centered solutions.

“This is not a ribbon-cutting circus. It is a deliberate step in transforming Zambia’s energy security, job creation, and economic recovery. Projects like this speak louder than political noise,” Hichilema declared.

The Chisamba solar facility forms part of the government’s broader strategy to generate 1,000 megawatts of clean energy by 2030.

The President confirmed that a second 100MW phase is already on the horizon, expected to be delivered at a lower cost due to improved technology and financing arrangements.

Without naming individuals, Hichilema accused previous regimes of undermining state institutions such as ZESCO through political interference and unsound financial decisions.

“When we took office, we found a power utility drowning in debt and a mining sector in legal paralysis. Today, we’re not only resolving that chaos—we’re turning it into growth,” he said.

He cited the reopening of long-dormant mines like Kalengwa and the return of strategic investors such as First Quantum Minerals, which recently injected $1.5 billion into the Kansanshi S3 expansion project.

Mopani Copper Mines is next, with over $2 billion anticipated from a new investor agreement.

“These are not favours. They are strategic recoveries of what was lost to corruption, incompetence, and political manipulation,” he said pointedly.

Responding to critics—especially those alleging that tax breaks are being granted to mining giants—Hichilema was unapologetically direct:

“First Quantum remains Zambia’s largest taxpayer. Those shouting about tax holidays are either misinformed or deliberately misleading the public. They want to distract you from the fact that we’re delivering—while they failed,” he said.

He also dismissed opposition gatherings in Lusaka as irrelevant to the real work of governance and urged citizens to evaluate leadership based on tangible results, not slogans or theatrics.

The President directed that part of the electricity generated by the solar facility remain within Central Province to benefit local businesses and farmers.

“A barber should not have to buy fuel to power his clippers. A widow running a saloon should not go dark during outages. This electricity must work for the people who supported this project before it even broke ground,” he emphasized.

Calling on residents to safeguard the plant against vandalism, Hichilema reminded communities of their ownership in this development.

“This is your asset. You demanded change. Now defend what that change is delivering,” he said.

He linked the successful commissioning to Zambia’s recent debt restructuring milestone, emphasizing the relationship between fiscal responsibility, investor confidence, and infrastructure delivery.

“With breathing room created through hard negotiations, we can now invest in real development. This solar plant is one example. It’s clean, sustainable, and economically viable,” he said.

He reaffirmed plans to position Zambia as a regional energy exporter once domestic demand is met.

“If we don't export surplus power, someone else will take our market. Energy trade is not betrayal—it’s smart economics,” the President added.

Closing with a strong political message, Hichilema underscored that meaningful change stems from dedication—not ceremony.

“State House is not for sleeping. It’s a workstation. We are not in power to enjoy the trappings of office—we are here to fix a broken country. That’s what we’re doing,” he declared.

He thanked Power China and Standing Investment Group for partnering with ZESCO and reiterated his government’s commitment to clean governance and strategic, results-oriented partnerships.

“This is what credible leadership looks like. No slogans. No corruption. Just progress—measured in megawatts, jobs, and opportunities for our people,” he said.

Chikote: A Beacon for the Energy Future

Energy Minister Makozo Chikote described the plant as emblematic of Zambia’s energy transition—grounded in innovation, sustainability, and strategic collaboration.

“This plant is not just a milestone—it’s a beacon for our energy future,” he said. 

“With vision, determination, and collaboration, we can achieve great things.”

Built in just 10 months through a public-private partnership, the plant did not increase Zambia’s debt burden. 

Chikote emphasized that construction began even before financial closure—reflecting strong investor confidence in Zambia’s energy policies.

“This is proof that when purpose meets partnership, transformation is possible,” he said.

The Chisamba facility is the first in a series of planned solar projects across the country. Similar 100-megawatt plants are expected in Serenje, Kapeya, Chipata, and Choma.

 “Mr. President, you will be commissioning and commissioning,” Chikote quipped, highlighting the government’s ambitious energy rollout.

Zambia aims to install at least 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy in the near future. The Chisamba site will expand to 200 megawatts by May 2026, with construction on the second phase scheduled to begin next month.

The facility will also integrate into the Southern African Power Pool—positioning Zambia as a net exporter of clean energy.

Local Capacity and Climate Resilience

In addition to enhancing capacity, the project has developed local technical skills. Zambian engineers and technicians were involved throughout, bolstering domestic energy independence.

“The lights coming on today are not just for Chisamba but for Zambia’s sustainable future,” said Chikote.

The project aligns with the government’s broader effort to diversify energy sources, especially as the country grapples with the effects of climate change on hydropower.

PowerChina: Partnership in Action

PowerChina, the project contractor, reiterated its commitment to supporting Zambia’s energy goals.

Speaking at the event, Chen Guanfu—Chief Representative of PowerChina in Zambia and Chairman of PowerChina International Group—described the plant’s commissioning as a major milestone in Zambia’s green energy journey.

“This is more than just the commissioning of a power plant—it is the activation of a clean energy future for Zambia,” he said.

Guanfu noted that the project generated over 4,000 jobs during construction, empowering the local community through employment, training, and enterprise development.

“We maintained the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency throughout. The result is a facility that will provide reliable electricity and significantly reduce carbon emissions,” he stated.

He thanked the Zambian government, traditional leaders, and local authorities for their collaboration.

 “Together, we have achieved something truly impactful,” he said.

ZESCO and Central Province’s Economic Potential

ZESCO Managing Director Justine Longo praised Central Province as one of Zambia’s emerging economic powerhouses, second only to Lusaka, Southern, and Northwestern provinces.

 “As we modernize infrastructure and pursue catalytic development, particularly through projects like this one, we are engaging traditional leaders to ensure inclusive progress,” Longo said.

He emphasized electricity as a fundamental driver of productivity, noting that improved access will enhance agricultural, manufacturing, and mining output.

“With the right energy backbone, Zambia’s economy—currently valued between $38 and $40 billion—can surpass $50 billion. Central Province will be central to that transformation,” he said.

Longo welcomed President Hichilema to the Chikonkomene community and reiterated ZESCO’s commitment to powering inclusive national development.

Provincial and Local Support

Central Province Minister Mwabashike Nkulukusa reaffirmed the province’s alignment with the President’s vision to double Zambia’s economy by focusing on key sectors.

 “This year, we are projected to lead in agricultural output,” he said, citing over $1.2 billion in new investment commitments in the Yangtze Economic Zone.

He highlighted growth in mining and tourism, referencing the annual fruit bat migration in Kasanka National Park and the increasing tourist traffic to Kafue National Park.

“We are committed to contributing meaningfully to the national GDP through a stronger local economy,” he said.

Kasanda: Solar Project Reflects Inclusive Leadership

Chisamba MP Chushi Kasanda commended President Hichilema for championing inclusive and sustainable development.

“This project is not just about electricity—it is about employment, economic empowerment, and uplifting our people. It shows your government’s dedication to real and practical solutions,” Kasanda said.

She noted that over 1,300 jobs were created, with 1,000 taken up by local residents—stimulating the local economy and transforming livelihoods.

“When people are empowered economically, marketeers and shop owners benefit. There is a ripple effect across the community,” she said.

Kasanda praised the free education policy and the increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from K1.6 million to K36.1 million, which she said had been instrumental in transforming schools and giving children a future.

“Parents have taken their children back to school, something we never thought would be possible. We thank you, Mr. President, for making this a reality,” she added.

She affirmed continued support for the President’s leadership.

“The people of Chisamba are watching, they are listening, and they are appreciating your efforts. We are 100 percent behind you. Keep moving forward—we are moving with you,” she said.

The commissioning of the Chisamba solar plant marks a pivotal moment in Zambia’s transition to clean energy and climate-resilient development.