The Fight Inequality Alliance (FIA) Zambia says loadshedding is exacerbating the inequality gap in the country.
FIA Zambia’s National Coordinator, Mputa Ngalande, said ordinary people are struggling to access alternative energy sources due to power outages caused by drought.
Mr Ngalande urges the government to explore sustainable solutions, including nuclear energy, to address loadshedding.
“We have observed that power outages disproportionately affect vulnerable populations on the frontline of inequality,” Ngalande stated.
“While some small businesses have closed, others have turned to expensive alternative energy sources,” he added.
He said despite the removal of taxes on alternative energy, the cost remains high for ordinary citizens.
The FIA Zambia emphasizes the need for tangible policies to address the power deficit in the medium to long term.
“The country has faced similar situations since 2018,” he said.
“Zambia heavily relies on hydroelectricity (80%), prompting FIA Zambia to call for diversification away from this source in light of climate change. Ngalande emphasizes that leaders must strategize to reduce dependence on hydroelectricity, which impacts living costs and production,”
“Entrepreneurs, especially those in high-unemployment context, face challenges when their businesses rely solely on hydroelectricity,” he said.
Mr Ngalande said FIA Zambia notes that ZESCO (Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation) deviates from loadshedding schedules, urging the utility company to adhere to announced hours.
