by Caleb Munthali

The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), has commissioned the 60 kWp Mpidi Solar Mini Grid in Zambezi District of North-Western Province. This marks a historic milestone as the Mpidi Community is being electrified for the first time since independence

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Vice President Mutale Nalumango said government’s long-term goal is to expand the deployment of solar mini grids to power more rural structures, accelerating development and improving livelihoods.

“The government is proud of this project for its transcendent value. It is a critical step in improving the lives of our people, especially in rural areas. Solar mini-grids offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to Zambia’s energy needs. Connecting Mpidi to the national grid would have required an investment of K25 million. In contrast, the solar mini grid was completed at a cost of K10 million” she said.

REA Board Member, Engineer Kennedy Muteto, outlined the immediate benefits of the solar mini grid, which now provides electricity to 300 households, two schools, an agricultural center, the chief’s palace, and a rural health facility.

“This project demonstrates REA’s dedication to bringing electricity infrastructure to every corner of the country. We are working with local and international partners to replicate such initiatives through private sector collaborations” he said.

And Chief Mpidi commended the government for fulfilling its promise to electrify the community and applauded Vice President Nalumango’s leadership in championing development.

Since the formation of the new dawn government in 2021, REA has implemented 17 solar mini projects nationwide and plans to undertake even more, supported by sustained government funding.