LAVUSHIMANDA District in Muchinga Province is set to benefit from a major power infrastructure development, following the approval of a US$649,000 electrification project by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).
The electrification project, which will be implemented by the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), is among the 112 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports approved by ZEMA at a combined investment value of over US$700 million.
This comprehensive undertaking is valued at $649 thousand.
According to ZEMA manager of corporate affairs Ruth Kamwi, the project aims to enhance the district’s access to electricity by installing power infrastructure at key locations, including schools, healthcare centres, and the central business district.
Kamwi noted that this initiative represents a major milestone in improving the quality of life and supporting economic growth in the district, as well as contributing to the overall development of the Muchinga Province.
In addition, the proposed expansion of the Chirundu One Stop Border Post (OSBP), located in Chirundu District, has been greenlighted by ZEMA, paving the way for the 27 million US$ project to be undertaken by Borders Consortium Limited.
Kamwi shared that the expansion will focus on improving border security, facilitating faster trade, and reducing delays at the border crossing between Zambia and Zimbabwe, resulting in enhanced efficiency and convenience for both countries.
She stated that the cross-border nature of the project underscores the importance of regional cooperation and integration in driving economic development and trade in the region.
“Other approved projects by sector include, 65 in mining and mineral processing, 18 in energy; 10 in infrastructure development, 14 in manufacturing and processing, and five in agriculture, forestry and tourism,” she revealed.
“These projects demonstrate ZEMA’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and environmental management in Zambia.”
However, these approvals were done at the 34th meeting of the Environmental Assessment Committee held on July 31, 2025.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba August 4, 2025
