REDUCTION OF LOAD SHEDDING HEARTENING AND SHOULD NOT BE ANNOUNCED ‘SILENTLY.’
We are happy with the stance the United Party for National Development (UPND) has taken by steadily turning the corner in its fight against load shedding.
The results are now visible in households, markets, and township business corridors across the country, testimony that President Hakainde Hichilema is a player with his eyes on the ball since he doesn’t pay attention to the baying of spectators shouting from the sidelines. 
At a time when some opposition voices continue to politicise the power deficit, the government and ZESCO have focused their energy on the one thing that matters most—getting electricity back into homes and reviving economic activity in communities.
In recent weeks, ZESCO has significantly increased electricity supply in residential areas, with some townships now receiving up to 10 hours of power daily.
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote confirmed the improvement, emphasising that the adjustment was implemented “silently” so that citizens could feel the difference for themselves, free from exaggerated political talk.
However, we would like to implore Mr. Chikote that considering the deafening noise concerning load shedding, it was irresponsible not to announce the improvement of power supply instead of doing it ‘silently.’
We would remind Mr. Chikote and other ministers in critical ministries like agriculture, health, and local government never to implement progressive projects ‘silently.’
As a leading online publication abreast with load-shedding, we are aware that Zambian households were just a few months ago, facing as little as 3 to 5 hours of electricity per day at the peak of the national power crisis.
Today, areas such as Mandevu, Kanyama, Chawama, Wusakile, Zingalume, Chipulukusu, Mtendere, Linda, Chibolya, Chipata Compound, and Kankoyo are receiving 7 to 10 hours—an improvement residents say has brought real relief.
Can you announce this development ‘silently’ when the country is full of Doubting Thomases, anti-President Hichilema, and UPND elements who wouldn’t appreciate anything from this government?
These gains did not come by accident. They are the result of deliberate, practical interventions by the government and ZESCO.
Following reduced water levels caused by drought and the temporary shutdown of major generation equipment, Zambia faced a sharp electricity deficit earlier in the year.
Instead of resigning itself to the situation—or engaging in a blame game—the government took decisive action.
Through strategic electricity imports from the Southern African Power Pool and temporarily reducing power exports, ZESCO prioritised domestic needs to ensure Zambian households and businesses receive more stable supply.
This approach has allowed micro-enterprises to extend operating hours, families to carry out domestic chores more comfortably, and students to study in the evenings with reliable lighting.
Food vendors can preserve perishables, welders can take on more jobs, and barbershops and salons have regained their customer flow.
This improvement is not just about convenience; it represents a revival of township-level economic activity.
In addition to short-term imports, the government is investing heavily in long-term energy security.
The 35-MW Choma solar plant—expected to be completed within eight months—is part of President Hakainde Hichilema’s ambitious plan to add 1,000 MW of solar power to the grid.
Meanwhile, construction of the 330-kV Kafue West–Muzuma transmission line is underway to support new power generation, including the upcoming Sinazongwe and Maamba expansions.
Despite clear progress, some political actors continue to use load shedding as a tool for criticism.
Yet the facts show that Zambia’s challenges mirror regional patterns, with drought affecting countries from Zimbabwe to Malawi and South Africa.
What distinguishes Zambia is the speed and practicality of the response.
