Report reveals 66% of rural Zambia households without access to electricity

The government has raised concerns about the low levels of electricity access in Zambia’s rural areas, with a new report revealing that 66 percent of rural households remain without power.

Energy Ministry Permanent Secretary, Peter Mumba, acknowledged Zambia’s lag in rural electrification compared to regional counterparts, noting its negative impact on key sectors such as agriculture.

Speaking at the launch of the 2023 National Energy Access Survey on Friday at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, Mumba emphasized the urgent need to bridge the urban-rural energy gap.

“The statistics clearly show that rural areas continue to face severe challenges in accessing electricity. This gap must be addressed if we are to support economic growth and development,” he said.

The survey revealed that only 53.6 percent of Zambian households have access to electricity, leaving 46.4 percent without power.

Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with just 34 percent of households connected to electricity compared to over 80 percent in urban areas.

The report highlighted stark disparities between rural and urban regions, with urban centers like Lusaka and the Copperbelt enjoying much higher levels of reliable electricity access.

Mumba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing rural electrification, describing it as a cornerstone for achieving equitable development and supporting agriculture, education, and health services in rural communities.

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