Zambia, one of Africa’s top copper producers, is facing a severe power shortage as a prolonged drought has reduced water levels at its main hydroelectric dams.
President Hakainde Hichilema announced on Thursday that the government has drawn up plans to import and ration electricity to cope with the situation, which he declared a national disaster and emergency.
“The disaster and emergency are severe, and the government is responding with urgency,” he said in a televised address to the nation.
Impact on agriculture and mining
Hichilema said the drought, caused by climate change and the El Nino weather phenomenon, has affected 84 of the country’s 116 districts, destroying about 1 million hectares of the 2.2 million planted crops.
He said the drought has also impacted the country’s hydropower generation, which accounts for about 80% of its electricity supply. The energy sector is expected to have a deficit of 430 megawatts, which may reach 520 megawatts by December 2024.
This could have serious consequences for Zambia’s mining sector, which contributes about 10% of its gross domestic product and employs thousands of people. Mining companies have already complained about frequent power cuts and high tariffs, which have affected their operations and profits.
Measures to mitigate the crisis
Hichilema said the government will implement several measures to address the power crisis, including importing electricity from neighboring countries, rationing power supply, and promoting renewable energy sources such as solar and wind.
He also said the government will realign the 2024 national budget to allocate more resources for humanitarian assistance and drought relief. He appealed to the international community and development partners to support Zambia with food aid and technical assistance.
As a long-term solution, Hichilema said the government will enhance water harvesting mechanisms and irrigation development to boost agricultural production and resilience.
He also urged Zambians to conserve water and electricity and to adopt climate-smart practices to reduce the effects of the drought.
A ray of hope
Despite the challenges posed by the drought, Hichilema said he was optimistic that Zambia will overcome the crisis and achieve its development goals.
He said his administration, which came to power in August 2024 after a landslide election victory, is committed to improving the economy, fighting corruption, and restoring democracy and the rule of law.
“We are confident that with the support of our people, our cooperating partners, and the grace of God, we shall prevail,” he said.
Source: ReutersÂ
