Over One Million Zambians to Gain Electricity Access by 2030 Under New World Bank Project
The World Bank has approved a US$200 million International Development Association (IDA) grant for the 13th phase of the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Programme, which aims to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to over one million Zambians within the next five years.
The ASCENT Zambia project will prioritise connecting remote and underserved communities while supplying affordable and dependable power to businesses and industries, driving economic growth and job creation. It will also expand successful pilot projects, invest in new technologies, and strengthen local capacity to manage energy infrastructure.
“This project is a testament to the World Bank’s commitment to sustainable energy access for all Zambians in line with the Zambia National Energy Compact, under the Mission 300 Initiative,” said Yadviga Viktorivna Semikolenova, World Bank Practice Manager for Energy for Eastern and Southern Africa.
The ASCENT Programme supports countries in Eastern and Southern Africa to achieve the Mission 300 goal of connecting 300 million people across the continent by 2030. The Zambian phase marks the thirteenth stage of the region-wide initiative.
“Partnerships are key to the success of the ASCENT Zambia project,” added Achim Fock, World Bank Country Manager for Zambia, emphasising collaboration in fostering economic growth through reliable energy supply.
The IDA, established in 1960, is one of the largest sources of assistance for the world’s poorest nations, providing grants and low to zero-interest loans to promote economic development and reduce poverty.
