Zambia Launches Gender Impact Assessment Guidelines for Energy Infrastructure Projects

The Zambian government has launched the Guidelines for Conducting Gender Impact Assessments of Energy Infrastructure Projects, a new policy framework designed to ensure that the country’s rapidly expanding power sector delivers equitable and inclusive benefits. The launch took place in Lusaka on 30 January 2026, bringing together senior government officials, private sector representatives, cooperating partners, academia, and civil society.

The guidelines aim to systematically integrate gender considerations into the planning, design, and implementation of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution projects. They provide practical tools for conducting gender assessments, developing action plans, monitoring and evaluation, and ensuring inclusive stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle.

Addressing the event, Mr. Mafayo Ziba, Director of Energy, delivered a keynote message on behalf of Eng. Arnold M. Simwaba, Permanent Secretary for Electricity, highlighting the importance of aligning infrastructure development with the diverse social and economic impacts experienced by different groups in society.

Ms. Mainga Kabika, Permanent Secretary in the Gender Division, Cabinet Office, described the guidelines as a milestone in integrating gender equality into national energy development. She emphasized that the framework strengthens social safeguards and ensures that energy investments provide fair access to employment, leadership roles, and community benefits for both women and men.

The launch was witnessed by experts and partners including Professor Julia Tomei and Professor Stephanie Hirmer of the Climate Compatible Growth Programme, Ms. Charlene Bangwe from the British High Commission, Prof. Lloyd Chingambo from Lloyds Financial, and Mr. Henry Nkhoma, Director of Gender in Development at the Gender Division.

The guidelines were developed with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Climate Compatible Growth Programme. Speakers noted that the framework aligns with Zambia’s broader development priorities and international commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals on affordable clean energy, gender equality, and reduced inequalities, ensuring that the country’s energy transition is socially responsive and sustainable.