Rural Electrification Gets Boost as Chikote Charges New REA Board
Minister of Energy, Hon. Makozo Chikote, has issued firm guidance to the newly appointed Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Board, chaired by Mr Charles Matomola Mboma, calling for decisive leadership to accelerate energy access, strengthen governance, and position rural electrification as a driver of economic growth.
Speaking during the Board’s induction in Lusaka today, Minister Chikote congratulated members on their appointment, thanking them for accepting to serve the nation. He emphasised that the Board’s mandate is central to Zambia’s national development agenda and must yield tangible outcomes that deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to rural communities.
The Minister highlighted that the Board assumes office at a critical juncture for the energy sector, as the Government implements reforms aimed at positioning the private sector as a key engine of economic growth. “Rural electrification should no longer be viewed solely as a social intervention,” he said, “but as a catalyst for productive enterprise, value addition, job creation, and inclusive development.”
Minister Chikote urged the Board to provide strategic direction that supports private sector participation, innovative financing models, and partnerships to accelerate energy access in rural and peri-urban areas.
He also encouraged members to familiarise themselves with the REA Act, which he described as their principal guide in engagements with management, and reminded them that performance contracts will be used to assess their achievements during their tenure.
Among the Board’s key priorities, the Minister identified strengthening procurement and project delivery systems. He stressed that expeditious procurement processes, timely implementation, cost reflectivity, and uncompromising quality standards are imperative. “Delays and cost overruns undermine public confidence and constrain the country’s ability to scale up rural electrification,” he warned.
The Minister also highlighted pending activities requiring Board approval, including the launch of the Rural Electrification Master Plan and operating guidelines for the Rural Electrification Fund. He directed the Board to begin preparations for a new strategic plan, noting that continuity across Board tenures is essential.
Acknowledging the current energy crisis in Zambia, driven by climatic variability, infrastructure constraints, and rising demand, Minister Chikote called for a forward-looking, adaptive, and solutions-oriented Board.
He emphasised the need for diversification in energy access through renewable and alternative sources such as solar, mini-hydro, biomass, and hybrid systems, describing it as a strategic investment in sustainability, energy security, and climate resilience.
On governance, the Minister stressed effective Board–management relations anchored on mutual respect, clarity of roles, and open communication. He urged the Board to provide strategic direction and oversight while allowing management the operational space to deliver.
The new REA Board brings together experts and representatives from professional bodies and public institutions, including the Economic Association of Zambia, the Engineering Institute of Zambia, local government, the Attorney General’s office, NGOs, the Ministry of Energy, and sector specialists. This diverse composition is expected to enhance balanced decision-making and strengthen institutional oversight.
Minister Chikote assured the Board of Government support and expressed confidence in their stewardship under Mr Mboma’s leadership, noting that their decisions will shape the pace and quality of rural development in Zambia for years to come.
