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President Hakainde Hichilema called on the residents of Sinazongwe to support the Maamba Thermal Power Expansion Project, stressing that the project has the potential to drive economic growth and create opportunities for the local community. The President made these remarks during a public rally at the Kanzinzei Stadium in Sinazongwe. The commissioning of the second phase of the Maamba Energy Limited thermal power plant, which is a $400 million investment, will double the power generation capacity to 600 megawatts.
Addressing the crowd, President Hichilema highlighted the achievements of his government over the past three years, including delivering on key promises such as providing free education and increasing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). “We brought peace, you can move freely without any threats, we employ your children as teachers, nurses and military officers across the country,” he stressed the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Zambians.
The President assured the people of Sinazongwe that his government is committed to completing important infrastructure projects, including the Maamba-Batoka road, and improving the economic status of the region and the province. He urged residents to support the thermal power expansion project, which he noted will open doors for local businesses through contracts and linkages with mines. “You will start doing business through contracts with mines, make sure you support the project and it will support you,” he added.
At the event, Minister of Mines and Mineral Development Paul Kabuswe commended President Hichilema for his leadership and said Zambia is on the road to recovery. He called on the public to continue to support the President’s vision, especially in the energy sector.
The Mamba Thermal Power Expansion Project, expected to be completed within 24 months, is an important step towards addressing Zambia’s energy shortages. President Hichilema noted that the project is a testament to the government’s determination to achieve energy security and praised the successful resolution of a conflict between Mamba Energy and Zambia Power that had previously hampered progress.
The President also stressed the importance of environmental responsibility in the implementation of the project and called on the power plant management to give priority to employment of local people.
In a related matter, President Hichilema advised residents in the areas affected by the recent anthrax outbreak in Southern Province to avoid eating carcasses of animals infected with the disease and ensure that their livestock are vaccinated. He assured that the government was working hard to contain the outbreak.
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, speaking at the same event, highlighted the long-term impact of the Maamba expansion project and said the project would change the energy landscape in Zambia for generations. Maamba Energy board chairman Ashvin Devineni and ZCCM-IH board chairman Akanenwa Muyangwa also expressed their commitment to driving the development of the country’s energy sector through continued investment.
President Hichilema has now returned to Lusaka.
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