The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has disclosed that government has invested more than K116 Million in 22 grid electrification projects in North-Western Province. Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Solwezi, REA Senior Community Development Officer, Vijue Moonga,…

The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has disclosed that government has invested more than K116 Million in 22 grid electrification projects in North-Western Province.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Solwezi, REA Senior Community Development Officer, Vijue Moonga, said 10 of the 22 projects have been completed, seven are ongoing, and three are under procurement, while two have been terminated.

“The projects have benefited health facilities, chiefs’ palaces, trading centres, households, among others. In terms of solar mini-grids, one has already been commissioned in Mpidi,” Mr Moonga said.

He further revealed that REA made 88,934 electricity connections between 2006 and 2018, and is targeting 109,000 connections in 2026 alone.

“Have you seen how ambitious we are? From 2006 to 2018 we made 88,934 connections, but in 2026 alone we are targeting 109,000 connections,” he said.

Meanwhile, North-Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Luckson Mulumbi, noted that electricity is the lifeblood of modern economic development and one of the strongest drivers of social transformation.

Mr Mulumbi added that reliable electricity among other things powers schools and creates a better learning environment for pupils.

“It enables health facilities to deliver quality medical services, supports business growth and industrial productivity, promotes innovation, stimulates investment, and creates employment opportunities,” Mr Mulumbi said.

He added that expanded access to electricity presents enormous opportunities to unlock the vast economic potential for the province.