LUSAKA – President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated Zambia’s dedication to enhancing its power generation capacity to meet the rising demand from critical sectors like mining and agriculture.
Speaking during a meeting with representatives from 7YRDS Energy, a prominent German company, President Hichilema lauded the strides made in Zambia’s solar energy sector, emphasizing its potential to alleviate the nation’s energy deficit.
The discussions took place during a courtesy visit by 7YRDS Energy to State House, where the company unveiled plans to invest in solar energy projects in Kafue and Sesheke, situated in Zambia’s Western Province.
President Hichilema hailed the decision of 7YRDS Energy to invest in Zambia’s solar energy sector, underscoring the pivotal role such investments could play in driving economic growth, particularly in vital sectors like mining and agriculture.
“We welcome the investment by 7YRDS Energy and appreciate their commitment to supporting Zambia’s energy sector,” President Hichilema remarked.
“These investments are essential for our nation’s development and align with our vision to expand our power generation capacity.”
President Hichilema also outlined the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment for investors.
He emphasized the importance of collaborations with international partners to enhance investments in energy infrastructure, emphasizing the crucial role of sustainable energy in driving economic progress.
“We are committed to facilitating negotiations between 7YRDS Energy and ZESCO to ensure the timely implementation of these solar energy projects,” President Hichilema stated.
“Expanding our renewable energy capacity is a priority, and partnerships with companies like 7YRDS Energy are instrumental in achieving our goals.”
The German Ambassador to Zambia, Anne-Wagner Mitchell, echoed President Hichilema’s sentiments, expressing Germany’s keen interest in supporting Zambia’s energy sector development.
She revealed that 7YRDS Energy had already initiated feasibility studies in Kafue and Sesheke, with a substantial investment commitment.
Philip Jansen, the Founder and Managing Director of 7YRDS Energy, lauded President Hichilema’s efforts in promoting Zambia as an attractive investment destination.
He emphasized his company’s readiness to expedite project implementation, with plans to commence operations in the near future.
The meeting underscored Zambia’s commitment to leveraging renewable energy sources to address its energy deficit and drive sustainable economic growth.
With investments like those proposed by 7YRDS Energy, Zambia is poised to unlock its vast renewable energy potential and propel its development agenda forward.
