WHILE Zambians are familiar with the challenges droughts bring, the current power cuts raise a new concern. Dr Johnstone Chikwanda, a prominent figure in the energy sector, sheds light on why President Hakainde Hichilema’s statement calling this the “worst drought” might hold more weight than just rainfall figures.
Dr Chikwanda acknowledges past droughts, but argues that the impact of this one is far greater.
“While previous droughts may have seen similar rainfall levels,” he explained, “we need to look at the impact this drought is having, particularly on our energy generation.”
A key factor Dr Chikwanda highlighted was the significant population increase Zambia has experienced since past droughts.
This translates to a much larger population relying on a strained electricity grid.
“The demand for electricity has grown very significantly,” Dr Chikwanda emphasized. “Droughts in the past may not have had such a dramatic effect because the demand for power simply wasn’t as high.”
Furthermore, Zambia’s heavy reliance on hydropower makes it particularly susceptible to drought’s impact.
“In the past, droughts might have caused some issues, but they wouldn’t have crippled power generation to this extent,” Dr. Chikwanda explained.
The current load shedding isn’t just an inconvenience; it has a ripple effect on various sectors – businesses struggle to operate, and access to basic necessities like clean water can be hampered.
“The impact of this drought is much more than we have had in previous times,” Dr Chikwanda stressed. “It’s not just about the rainfall; it’s about the strain it puts on our entire system due to our reliance on hydropower and a growing population.”
Dr Chikwanda’s insights echo the President’s statement, highlighting the urgency for a more diversified energy mix.
He told Kalemba that investing in renewable sources and reducing dependence on hydropower, Zambia can build resilience against future droughts and ensure a more stable energy future for its citizens.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba March 22, 2024
