The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has successfully completed the historic Mitete Grid Development Project, bringing power for the first time to a catchment population of 42,000 people in Western Province.

Speaking during a tour of the project, Western Province Minister Hon. Kapelwa Mbangweta hailed the development as a major step forward for government’s rural transformation agenda.

“The people of Mitete cried for electricity for many years. Today, government has listened and delivered. This project will unlock social and economic opportunities in education, health, and business for thousands of residents,” Hon. Mbangweta said.

The K51 million project, which until now remained the only part of Western Province without grid power, includes a 55km extension line and the crossing of the Zambezi River on a 550-metre electricity line, an engineering first for REA.

REA Acting Chief Executive Officer Eng. Alex Mbumba hailed the project as one of the most complex in the Authority’s history.

“This project demonstrates the magnitude of what REA can achieve. By using concrete poles that can last up to 50 years, compared to wooden poles that need replacement every 8–10 years, we’ve ensured long-term sustainability and reduced lifecycle costs,” said the Acting CEO.

And REA Board Member Eng. Kenneth Muteto thanked government for increasing funding to rural electrification, pledging continued commitment from the Authority’s leadership.

“We’re grateful for the increased resource envelope that has made projects like this possible. The Board will continue to push REA to deliver even more projects across the country so that we bring development to the people,” said Eng. Muteto.

Also present at the project site visit were Mitete District Commissioner Patrick Mikosa and his Lukulu District counterpart Kelly Kapaku, among other government officials.

The Mitete project will power critical institutions including schools, health facilities, government offices and housing units, with residents already anticipating growth in commerce and improved service delivery.