By Caleb Munthali
Vice President Mrs. Mutale Nalumango flags off REA implementation 2023 projects at Kamisamba Health Post grounds in Kabompo.
Republican Vice President Mrs. W. K Mutale Nalumango has flagged off implementation of the 2023 projects to be implemented by the Rural Electrification Authority (REA).
During a ceremony held at Kamisamba health post in Zambezi District, the vice President said government was committed to improving the standards of living for people in rural areas.
“This year Government increased funding to REA to over K743 million to accelerate rural electrification projects” she said.
Mrs. Nalumango said electricity was critical to unlocking numerous socio-economic potentials in rural areas.
“Western and North-western provinces are endowed with mineral resources. Therefore, taking energy to these areas would act as a catalyst to development as most investments require reliable sources of energy”.
The vice president also urged investors to support government efforts of accelerating development through Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives.
And REA Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Linus Chanda said his institution was determined to provide reliable electricity to rural areas in the country through connection to the national grid and off- grid systems.
“In order to unlock the economic potential in rural areas, we remain committed to ensuring that reliable electricity is provided” Eng. Chanda said.
As part of the 2023 workplan and budget, the Authority has commenced implementation of 62 grid development projects and 23 off- grid energy projects. this is expected to translate into 15120 beneficiaries comprising of 161 schools, 98 chief palaces, 18 markets, 14738 households 161 rural health centers and 26 other public facilities.
The flagging off of REA projects took place in North- western province in the sidelines of the CAPAH Expo which was held in Zambezi from 25th – 29th September 2023.
Veep meets REA staff after flagging off implementation of the 2023 projects in North- Western Province.
