By Francis Chipalo
The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) in partnership with the world bank and ministry of home affairs and internal security has finalized the implementation plan towards the electrification of Meheba refuge settlement camp in North – western province under phase two.
With funding from the world bank, the project will not only benefit Meheba, but host communities too.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Tuesday morning, REA chief executive officer Eng. Linus Chanda said access to electricity is not only about powering homes, but that it is also about powering potential and giving a platform for people residing in rural areas to reach their potential.
Eng. Chanda explained that the project which falls under the Zambia refugees and hosting community project, supported by the world bank aims to electricity not only Meheba, but host communities which includes Knayanga, Manyama and Miteba, using both on grid and off grid solution.
He said the partnership lays the foundation for lasting impact, strengthening resilience and promoting social – economic integration of refugee as well as host communities alike.
Speaking at the same event, world bank representative Njavwa Chilufya said the world bank remains committed to improving the welfare of refugees, but stated that this requires a multi – sectoral approach.
She added that the world bank as a funder remains committed to ensuring that the project is completed for residents in Meheba.
Meanwhile, home affairs and internal security permanent secretary Dickson Matembo said the project is the expansion of sustainable energy access targeting some of Zambia’s most vulnerable growth.
“We are confident that this partnership will deliver measurable results, lighting homes, powering the people,” he added.
The population of Meheba refugee settlement includes persons of concern (PoCs), refugees, former refugees, asylum seekers and the host community.
The settlers are mostly from Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, Rwanda, Burundi and Somalia, making it the biggest settlement camp in the country having been established in 1971 by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
It is located in Kalumbila District, North Western Province of Zambia.