GOVERNMENT has reduced the cost of getting electricity connections in rural and peri-urban areas from K4,846 to only K300.
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Energy Minister Makozo Chikote announced the change today at the launch of the ASCENT Zambia Programme in Lusaka.
He said the big reduction is part of a US$250 million project supported by the World Bank to help more Zambians access electricity and clean cooking.
The programme aims to connect over 1.6 million people in the next five years.
According to the Ministry of Energy, Chikote said applications for the cheaper connections will start on 22 December 2025 and the goal is to connect 100,000 households in the first year.
Chikote noted that only 51 percent of Zambians have electricity and in rural areas the number is even lower at 33 percent.
He said the new programme will help close this gap and improve people’s lives.
He encouraged people to apply and directed ZESCO and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) to inform communities across the country.
“Our desire is that a farmer in Eastern Province can refrigerate his produce, a schoolgirl in Northern Province can study under proper lighting, and an expectant mother in Western Province can access safe and reliable health services,” he said.
REA acting chief executive officer (CEO) Eng. Alex Mbumba said the agency will work closely with ZESCO to ensure the project is implemented smoothly, especially in areas that have been underserved.
ZESCO managing director Eng. Justin Loongo said the programme is a game changer that will help families access clean and reliable electricity.
The World Bank and COMESA also promised to continue supporting the programme with funding and technical help.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, December 3, 2025
