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Economist Yusuf Dodia has called on the government to revisit its energy policy, suggesting that the privatisation of the sector has not delivered benefits to consumers.
Dodia, who chairs the Private Sector Development Association (PSDA), argued that the commercialisation of Zambia’s energy sector, initiated years ago, has resulted in private sector investments that have driven up energy costs for end users.
Speaking in a telephone interview on Saturday with Zambia Monitor, Dodia said, “Zambia needs to reconsider the energy policy.
“In economies where growth has been sustained, energy is state-owned because it is crucial for development. Unlike in Zambia, energy in progressive countries is not treated as a business venture but as a developmental investment.”
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He drew parallels between state-led energy management and Zambia’s provision of free education and healthcare through initiatives such as the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA), describing these as nation-building activities rather than profit-driven enterprises.
Dodia also highlighted the global implications of energy privatisation, stating, “Countries in Europe that commercialised their energy sectors are now regretting it, as it has led to the collapse of their manufacturing industries.
Many of these industries have relocated to China and other Asian countries.”
He urged the government to reflect on these issues and consider a policy shift as the country moves into 2025.
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