ZESCO Showcases Power Projects to Drive Growth at Luapula Investment Expo
ZESCO Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding electricity access and supporting economic growth in Luapula Province, as it took centre stage at the 2026 Luapula Investment Expo held at Kaole Stadium.
The four-day expo, held under the theme “Unlocking Luapula’s Potential Investment Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth,” attracted more than 40 companies and organisations focused on advancing investment in key sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture, mining, tourism and energy.
As a major sponsor of the event, ZESCO used the platform to highlight key initiatives, including net metering, energy efficiency and the protection of power infrastructure. The utility also raised concern over continued vandalism, which it said is affecting electricity supply in parts of the province.
Speaking during an exhibitors’ discussion, ZESCO Director of Strategy and Business Development, Fitzpatrick Kapepe, revealed that only about 42 per cent of Luapula’s estimated 1.5 million population currently has access to electricity.
He stressed that improving power supply is essential not only for households but also for businesses and emerging industries in the region.
“Reliable electricity is a critical enabler of economic activity and investment. Without it, growth remains constrained,” he said.
Mr Kapepe added that ZESCO is positioning itself at the forefront of efforts to expand electricity access through strategic investments and partnerships.
He highlighted several key projects currently underway, including the Pensulo 330kV Transmission Line, the Luapula 122kV Network Upgrade, and two solar power projects in Chipili and Mabumba, each with a capacity of 50 megawatts.
The Mabumba Solar Power Plant, which is expected to scale up to 200 megawatts by 2028, was officially commissioned on 24 April 2026 by President Hakainde Hichilema, marking a significant boost to the country’s energy generation capacity.
Officials say the project is expected to address power supply challenges and unlock investment potential in Luapula Province.
ZESCO noted that through Power Purchase Agreements and targeted infrastructure development, it is working to deliver stable and sustainable electricity to underserved areas.
The utility reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring inclusive access to electricity, stating that reliable power remains a cornerstone for economic transformation and sustainable development in Luapula and beyond.
