Hakainde Hichilema Commissions 50-MW Mansa Solar Plant in Luapula Province to Support Zambia’s 10-GW Renewable Energy Target

Hakainde Hichilema has commissioned the 50-MW Mansa Solar Plant in Chief Mabumba’s area of Mansa District, Luapula Province, marking a major milestone in Zambia’s renewable energy expansion strategy and its target to achieve 10,000 MW of installed electricity generation capacity by 2030.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Hichilema described the project as a historic development for Luapula Province, which has not witnessed a major power generation investment in more than six decades. He stated that the solar plant reflects the government’s long-term planning and commitment to strengthening the country’s energy infrastructure and economic growth.

The President noted that the 50-MW solar facility is expected to create employment opportunities for local communities while supporting economic activities such as manganese mining and regional industrial development. He further emphasised the importance of national unity and collaboration in attracting additional investments in renewable energy and transmission infrastructure projects, including the proposed Kasama–Mansa transmission line.

Makozo Chikote, Zambia’s Minister of Energy, said solar projects that previously faced criticism are now delivering measurable results, adding that the government has lined up additional renewable energy projects to address the country’s electricity challenges. He also stated that load-shedding has significantly reduced as new generation capacity continues to come online.

According to ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo, the Mansa Solar Plant was developed at an investment cost of approximately US$48 million. Construction of the facility began in February 2025 and achieved substantial completion by December 2025. The project includes more than 1,500 solar panels and is expected to improve grid reliability and support inclusive economic growth across the province.

Nason Musonda described the project as transformative for the province, stating that increased access to electricity will accelerate economic development and create new opportunities for local communities.

Meanwhile, representatives from China Machinery Company, the project contractor, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting infrastructure development initiatives in Zambia aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening national development.

Chief Mabumba also pledged support for government-led development programmes and urged local residents to protect the solar facility from vandalism to ensure long-term operational sustainability.