The Zambian Minister for Energy, Makozo Chikote, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to driving investment and collaboration in the energy sector. He described the upcoming Energy Forum for Africa (EFFA) 2025, taking place in Zambia from September 10th to 12th, as a critical platform to unlock the region’s vast potential.
He emphasized that EFFA is not just a conference but a catalyst for concrete action through public-private partnerships.
“This year’s theme, ‘Investment Opportunities in the Energy Sector in Zambia and Africa,’ reflects our conviction that with the right policies and partnerships, we can translate ambition into bankable, sustainable energy projects,” Mr. Chikote said in a speech read for him by Minister of Sport, Youth, and Arts Elvis Nkandu.
Mr. Chikote outlined progress made by the Ministry, including reforms to improve transparency, streamline licensing, expand grid access, and promote cross-border energy trade.
A major milestone was the recent commissioning of the 100-megawatt Chisamba Solar Power Plant by KNBEPC, a project that emerged from discussions at EFFA 2024 and now stands as one of Zambia’s largest solar installations.
Mr. Chikote added that ZESCO Limited has signed Power Purchase Agreements with solar developers for over 1,000 megawatts, but many projects still need financing. He said EFFA 2025 would serve as a bridge between developers and financiers to unlock this potential.
Forum Chief Executive and Convener, Eng. Hope Chanda, said the forum is designed to deliver practical solutions to challenges facing Zambia’s energy sector.
She highlighted the recent launch of the open access policy as another key step towards opening the grid and encouraging competition.
She called on the media to highlight these success stories and urged new partners to take an active role in shaping the future of energy in Zambia and Africa.
EFFA 2025 is expected to attract leading energy players, policymakers, investors, and financiers from across Africa and beyond, all working to accelerate sustainable energy development for the continent.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
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