The Minister of Energy, Peter Kapala, has officially commissioned the K2.1 million Salamano Grid Intensification Project, aimed at serving Kitwe Mufulira district in the Copperbelt Province. Representing Mr. Kapala, Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Augustine Kasongo highlighted that this project is poised to benefit approximately 203 community members.
The initiative, according to Mr. Kapala, is expected to significantly contribute to the rapid expansion of electricity connections and aligns with the government’s electrification objectives outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan and Vision 2030.
Mr. Kapala emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to investing in rural electrification programs, with the ultimate goal of alleviating poverty and ensuring universal access to electricity for all Zambians. He underscored that the infusion of resources into the electrification sector is aimed at fostering socio-economic development within the Salamano region, impacting an estimated 1600 individuals in the catchment area.
Kapala further affirmed the government’s determination to guarantee electricity access for every citizen, fostering social and economic progress.
Linus Chanda, Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), noted that rural areas connected to electricity have experienced positive transformations, significantly improving the quality of life for residents.
In a related development, Christopher Nyungila, Kitwe District Education Secretary, hailed the connection of Salamano Primary School to the national grid, anticipating a positive impact on both students and teachers. Nyungila expressed optimism that this development would grant teachers more time to prepare for enhanced educational experiences, enabling parents who previously struggled with the cost of education to access night school classes.
The Salamano Grid Intensification Project signifies a significant step toward achieving Zambia’s electrification and socio-economic development goals, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens.
