The Zambian Government has officially launched the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Zambia (ASCENT-Zambia) Program, a US$200 million initiative supported by the World Bank to accelerate universal access to electricity and clean cooking solutions by 2030.
Officiating at the launch in Lusaka, Minister of Energy Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP, said the Program is central to the country’s long-term development agenda.
“This program aligns perfectly with Vision 2030, which aims to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030, and is further anchored on the Mission 300 Initiative, targeting access to modern energy for 300 million Africans by 2030,” said Honourable Chikote.
World Bank Zaambia Country Manager Dr. Achim Fock said the Program comes at a critical time as Zambia strengthens its energy resilience in the face of climate shocks.
“The ASCENT Zambia Program is a key building block for the country’s energy security and is the primary vehicle to deliver electricity access, clean cooking solutions, and productive energy use for millions,” said Dr. Fock.
Meanwhile, Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Acting Chief Executive Officer Eng. Alex Mbumba said the ASCENT Zambia Program will ensure measurable results on the ground.
“ASCENT-Zambia introduces a results-based financing model, ensuring that funds are released only when verified progress is achieved and that every investment delivers real impact for our communities,” said Eng. Mbumba.
ZESCO Managing Director Eng. Justin Loongo reaffirmed the utility’s readiness to deliver on the Program’s objectives.
As ZESCO, we are ready to extend lines, energise communities, and connect households, rural and peri-urban alike. We are ready to work with REA, COMESA, the World Bank, and all partners to ensure that ASCENT’s vision becomes Zambia’s reality,” said Eng. Loongo.
The ASCENT-Zambia Program is expected to connect over 1.6 million people to electricity and clean cooking technologies over the next five years, significantly accelerating Zambia’s journey toward universal energy access.
