Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 16th May, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
As Zambia continues to grapple with persistent electricity deficits, strategic partnerships with global energy players are taking center stage. In a move aimed at accelerating investment in Zambia’s power sector, the Minister of Energy, Mr. Makozo Chikote, has engaged in high-level talks with a visiting delegation from China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
The meeting, held today on May 16, 2025, in Lusaka, is part of ongoing follow-up engagements following President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent State Visit to China, where energy cooperation featured prominently on the bilateral agenda.
With a focus on renewable energy development, Mr. Chikote highlighted Zambia’s urgent need for investment in solar, wind and other sustainable energy sources to mitigate the adverse effects of load-shedding on key sectors such as mining, agriculture and youth driven enterprises.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to creating an investor friendly environment through targeted reforms, including cost reflective tariffs and regulatory enhancements aimed at ensuring long term stability and efficiency in the energy sector.
“The Government is determined to unlock Zambia’s vast energy potential by fostering partnerships that deliver tangible solutions to our power challenges,” Mr. Chikote said, assuring the Chinese delegation of Zambia’s readiness to facilitate credible investments.
Chairman Erkin Tuniyaz, who is leading the Xinjiang delegation comprising engineers and potential investors, expressed China’s willingness to support Zambia’s efforts in bridging its energy gap. He underscored the importance of reliable electricity in driving economic growth and extended an invitation for Zambia to deepen technical cooperation with China, particularly in renewables where Chinese expertise is well established.
The meeting also served as a reaffirmation of the strong diplomatic ties between Zambia and China, as both nations mark 60 years of bilateral relations. Energy collaboration is now poised to become a pivotal area of strategic partnership, with both sides committing to work towards sustainable development and shared prosperity.
The Agency.