President Hichilema Commissions 50MW Mansa Solar Plant
Hakainde Hichilema has commissioned the 50-megawatt Mansa Solar Plant in Chief Mabumba’s area of Mansa District, Luapula Province, reinforcing Government’s push to expand renewable energy and strengthen national development.
The project forms part of Zambia’s broader target to achieve 10,000 megawatts of installed electricity capacity by 2030, as the country accelerates efforts to address energy deficits and enhance power security.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Hichilema described the project as a major milestone for Luapula Province, which has not recorded significant power generation investment in over six decades.
“This project is not by luck. Development comes from clear vision, good planning and implementation,” he said.
The President noted that the solar plant is expected to create employment opportunities for local communities while supporting key economic activities such as manganese mining. He urged citizens to work closely with Government in unlocking further development opportunities.
He further stressed the importance of unity, cautioning that divisions and conflict undermine national progress. According to the Head of State, a united country is better positioned to attract investment, including additional solar projects and critical transmission infrastructure such as the Kasama–Mansa line.
Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, said solar energy initiatives that were once criticised are now delivering results, adding that more projects are in the pipeline. He expressed confidence in the sector’s progress, noting improvements in electricity supply.
Meanwhile, ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo said the US$48 million project will enhance the utility’s reliability in power supply.
He disclosed that construction began in February 2025 and reached substantial completion in December 2025. The project created over 350 jobs during the construction phase, with priority given to local people, while affected households were compensated.
Mr Loongo added that the solar plant is expected to contribute significantly to economic growth in the province, in line with ZESCO’s inclusive development agenda.
Luapula Province Minister Nason Musonda described the development as transformative, stating that increased access to electricity will unlock economic potential and create employment opportunities.
A representative of China Machinery Engineering Corporation, Mr Hu, said the company is proud to support infrastructure development in Zambia and remains committed to projects that improve livelihoods.
In a vote of thanks, Chief Mabumba pledged continued support for Government initiatives and urged residents to safeguard the investment by preventing vandalism.
