ZESCO reports K5.1 million loss due to infrastructure vandalism

ZESCO Limited has reported a loss of K5.1 million in 2024 as a result of widespread vandalism of its infrastructure.

The power utility company has also faced challenges from a prolonged drought that severely impacted Zambia’s hydropower generation capacity.

Acting Managing Director, Justin Loongo, attributed the situation to below-average water inflows into major reservoirs during the 2023/2024 period, significantly affecting power generation.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) premises in Lusaka, Loongo said vandalism continued to compound the challenges.

In November, ZESCO recorded 1,278 cases of infrastructure damage, including 253 incidents directly linked to vandalism, resulting in a financial loss of K5.7 million—a reduction from October’s K7.1 million loss due to intensified recovery efforts.

“Vandalism remains a substantial threat to Zambia’s energy infrastructure, leading to frequent power outages and significant financial losses,” Loongo stated.

To combat the issue, Loongo emphasized the need for community collaboration and law enforcement, revealing that assets worth K1.5 million were recovered in November.

Additionally, 67 suspects were apprehended, with nine securing convictions.

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