New Zambia Sugar Power Plans to Benefit Zambians
Zambia Sugar has announced plans to expand its electricity generation capacity to 100 megawatts, reinforcing its commitment to private sector-led growth and contributing to Zambia’s energy security.
Speaking at the 4th Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF) convened by President Hakainde Hichilema in Lusaka, Zambia Sugar Managing Director Mr Oswald Magwenzi said the company remains firmly aligned with the national vision of economic growth driven by private investment.
Mr Magwenzi noted that as a leading player in the agri-business sector, Zambia Sugar continues to demonstrate the role the private sector can play in national development through large-scale investments and innovation.
He revealed that the company is currently implementing projects valued at US$132 million, spanning manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and energy infrastructure. Among the key investments is an US$18 million falling film evaporator installed at the Nakambala factory to increase production throughput.
In addition, Mr Magwenzi said Zambia Sugar is investing more than US$23 million in agricultural projects focused on efficient irrigation technologies, which are already delivering positive results. A further US$75 million is being invested in the construction of the Twazabuka warehouse and customer service facility.
He also disclosed that Zambia Sugar has received authorisation from the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to expand its current 40 megawatts of electricity generation to 53 megawatts in the first phase, as part of a long-term plan to scale up production to 100 megawatts.
Mr Magwenzi further highlighted international recognition of the Zambian sugar industry, noting that at the 34th International Sugar Organization Seminar held in London, Zambia Sugar was ranked among the top 10 lowest-cost sugar producers globally.
Meanwhile, President Hakainde Hichilema reiterated the critical role of the private sector in driving national development and economic resilience. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to creating a conducive operating environment for businesses.
The President commended Zambia Sugar for its sustained investment and challenged the company to accelerate its expansion to the targeted 100 megawatts, encouraging it to supply excess power to the national grid in line with recent energy sector reforms.
This year’s Public Private Dialogue Forum was held under the theme “Driving National Development and Building Economic Resilience: An Innovative Private Sector for Job Creation and Sustained Economic Growth.”
