Zambia’s Minister for Energy, Makozo Chikote, has tasked the newly inducted Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Board, chaired by Mr. Charles Matomola Mboma, to demonstrate decisive yet strategic leadership by accelerating energy access, strengthening governance, and positioning rural electrification as a key driver of economic growth.
He delivered the charge during the Board’s induction ceremony in Lusaka today.
Mr. Chikote congratulated members on their appointment and thanked them for accepting to serve the nation.
He emphasised that the Board’s mandate lies at the heart of Zambia’s national development agenda and must translate into tangible outcomes that deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to rural communities throughout their tenure.
The Minister observed that the Board assumes office at a defining moment for the energy sector, as the Government implements far-reaching reforms aimed at repositioning the private sector as the engine of economic growth.
In this context, he stressed that rural electrification should no longer be viewed solely as a social intervention, but as a catalyst for productive enterprise, value addition, job creation, and inclusive development.
He urged the Board, under the leadership of Mr. Mboma, to provide strategic direction that actively supports private sector participation, innovative financing models, and partnerships to accelerate energy access in rural and peri-urban areas.
Mr. Chikote advised Board members to familiarise themselves with the REA Act, describing it as their principal guide in engagements with management.
He further emphasised that the Authority, like other public institutions, has ambitious targets, and that Board members will be required to sign performance contracts against which their performance will be assessed over their tenure.
The Minister identified the strengthening of procurement and project delivery systems as a critical priority for the Board’s term of office.
He stated that expeditious procurement processes, timely implementation, cost reflectivity, and uncompromising quality standards are imperative.
He warned that delays and cost overruns undermine public confidence and constrain the country’s ability to scale up rural electrification, urging the Board to exercise firm oversight to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, transparently, and in a manner that maximises value for money.
He further informed the Board that REA has several pending activities requiring approval, including the launch of the Rural Electrification Master Plan and the Rural Electrification Fund operating guidelines.
Mr. Chikote also directed the Board to begin preparations for the development of a new strategic plan, noting that the current plan will expire in 2026 and that continuity across Board tenures is essential.
The newly appointed REA Board brings together expertise and representation from key professional bodies and public institutions, including the Economic Association of Zambia, the Engineering Institute of Zambia, local government, the Attorney General’s Office, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the Ministry of Energy, as well as sector experts—a composition expected to enhance balanced decision-making and strengthen institutional oversight.
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