Constituencies to Build 2MW Solar Plants Across Zambia
Zambia is set for a major shift in local development following Cabinet’s approval of the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative (PCEI), a nationwide programme that will see each of the country’s 156 constituencies develop its own 2-megawatt solar power plant.
The initiative, described as “historic and transformative”, aims to convert the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) into a powerful engine for investment, wealth creation, and long-term energy security.
Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane said the decision, approved on 24 November 2025, represents a fundamental redefinition of the CDF’s purpose. Each solar project, valued between K65 million and K85 million, will be owned by the respective constituency, creating a permanent public asset that generates both electricity and income for the community.
Dr Musokotwane praised President Hakainde Hichilema for what he described as “visionary leadership rooted in practical development”, noting that the initiative shifts communities from being passive recipients of Government support to becoming active participants in national infrastructure development and energy production.
The PCEI builds on reforms introduced in 2021, which saw the CDF allocation increase from K1.6 million to over K35 million per constituency by 2025. In the 2026 National Budget, funding rises further to K40 million per constituency, with the total CDF allocation reaching K6.2 billion.
According to the Minister, the strengthened fund has already delivered unprecedented infrastructure gains. Since 2022, constituencies have constructed more than 2,800 classrooms, rehabilitated 422 others, and procured 670,000 desks. Health infrastructure has also expanded through the construction of 132 health posts and 195 maternity annexes, while access to clean water has improved with nearly 2,000 boreholes drilled and over 500 water schemes installed.
Social services have equally improved, with more than 82,000 learners receiving boarding bursaries and over 151,000 young people enrolling in skills training. Grants and loans have supported more than 60,000 women and youth entrepreneurs across the country.
Dr Musokotwane said these achievements reflect a deeper transformation in public finance, driven by stronger oversight, digitised payments, and tighter controls to prevent leakage and misuse of funds. “Every kwacha saved from waste is now being converted into something visible and useful—a classroom, a clinic, a water point, or a solar plant,” he said.
The PCEI’s revenue model is expected to further strengthen local autonomy. Electricity generated from the solar plants will be sold to ZESCO, enabling constituencies to raise their own income and gradually reduce reliance on central Government grants. The Minister said this would also stimulate local business growth, create jobs, and keep economic benefits within communities.
Beyond economic gains, the programme is expected to enhance energy security, improve rural electrification, and support small businesses such as salons, welding shops, bakeries, and community enterprises that depend on reliable power.
Dr Musokotwane emphasised that the initiative is proof that decentralisation is being implemented in tangible terms. “This is fiscal responsibility with a human face,” he said. “It ensures public resources reach every corner of the country and uplift the lives of ordinary citizens.”
He commended President Hichilema for championing the initiative and thanked Zambians for their continued support as Government implements long-term reforms aimed at inclusive national progress.
