Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary for Electricity, Eng. Arnold Simwaba, joined the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Board and Management on a tour of the Pambashe Phase 1 Grid Extension Project in Kawambwa District.

The Pambashe Phase 1 project involved the construction of approximately 31.3 kilometres of 33kV overhead line and 26.1 kilometres of 400V distribution network, supported by nine distribution transformers. The project is extending electricity access to schools, health facilities, markets, businesses and surrounding communities.

At Kanengo Rural Health Centre, Nurse-in-Charge Helgah Nkhuwa explained that access to electricity has significantly improved working conditions at the facility, which includes a maternity wing.

She noted that the improved working environment has also contributed to staff retention, with health workers now more motivated to remain at the facility rather than seek transfers. This is strengthening the centre’s capacity to provide essential healthcare services to the surrounding community.

The benefits of electrification are also being felt by local businesses. During a visit to shops connected under the project, traders shared how access to reliable electricity has enabled them to operate more effectively, extend their services and pursue opportunities to grow their businesses.

Eng. Simwaba expressed satisfaction with the impact of the project, noting that rural electrification goes beyond the construction of power infrastructure by ultimately about transforming lives and unlocking development.

From improving healthcare delivery and creating better working conditions for frontline workers to supporting businesses and stimulating local economic activity, electricity is creating new possibilities for rural communities.

Implemented at a cost of approximately ZMW17.57 million, the Pambashe Phase 1 Grid Extension Project provides for 560 initial connections, comprising 45 public facilities and 515 private connections.