Power China identifies 60 projects sites

By Masauso Mkwayaya

Government working with Power China has identified 60 project sites across the country to establish electricity, agriculture, and water harvesting projects.

This initiative is part of a master plan under development aimed at making Zambia energy and food secure.

Power China Chairman CHEN GUANFU says the development follows site investigations conducted by 72 Chinese and Zambian engineers, covering over 16,000 kilometres nationwide.

Speaking when he met President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA today at State House, Mr. CHEN said the investigations, include the North-to-South Water Transfer Project-diverting water from the Luapula to the Kafue River.

He explains that investigations have so far indicated that moving water from the Luapula to the Kafue River for electricity generation in the South will require construction of a canal.

Mr. CHEN adds that once fully implemented, these projects will make Zambia energy sufficient by 2030.

And President HICHILEMA has called for the speedy completion of the master plan.

President HICHILEMA said parts of the projects should commence without waiting for the master plan’s conclusion, as the initiative is critical to addressing the energy crisis and food insecurity caused by the drought.

And Agriculture Minister REUBEN MTOLO said Government has linked Power China to the Zambia National Service -ZNS- to establish pilot Agriculture Industrial Parks in Mumbwa and Mkushi.

At the same meeting , acting Energy Minister COLLINS NZOVU said Power China has been authorized to begin feasibility studies for electricity power plants.