HH officially launches Construction of 300mw power project
By Joy Nyambe
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has officially launched the construction works for phase 2 of the Maamba 300-megawatt expansion project in Sinazongwe district.
The 400-million-dollar project which will be implemented in 24 months is expected to double capacity to 600 megawatts.
Speaking during the groundbreaking Ceremony, President HICHILEMA said the project is a realization of the government’s agenda to address the country’s energy deficiency.
The President said the project also symbolizes his government’s relentless efforts towards the journey for energy security.
President HICHILEMA said Zambia presents a stable, consistent and attractive investment climate, hence the need for such projects to be supported.
He has expressed delight that the UPND has managed to solve the problems at Maamba Energy by bringing all concerned parties to solve their conflict outside the courts.
President HICHILEMA said that the dismantling of the debt between Maamba Energy and ZESCO outside court, has paved the way for the groundbreaking of the 300-megawatt project.
President HICHILEMA said phase 2 of the Maamba 300-megawatt expansion project is long overdue and must be completed ahead of time.
The Head of State also urged management at the power plant to employ locals and assured that the investment will be done in an environmentally acceptable way.
President HICHILEMA has advised people in areas where Anthrax has broken out in southern province to avoid eating carcasses of animals dying from the disease.
He urged the people to be taking their animals for vaccination, adding that the government will work tirelessly to control the outbreak.
Earlier, Energy Minister MAKOZO CHIKOTE said the launch of the project will change Zambia’s energy landscape for generations to come.
Mr. CHIKOTE said his ministry will do everything possible to ensure the project is implemented in the shortest possible time.
And Maamba Energy board chairperson ASHVIN DEVINENI said the expansion of the power project at Maamba Energy will boost the country’s investment climate in the energy sector
And ZCCM-IH Board Chairperson AKANENWA MUYANGWA reaffirmed his company’s commitment to continue investing in the energy sector.
