By Zambia Reports Reporter
Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, has expressed gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema and the Zambian people for the opportunity to serve in the energy sector as Parliament approaches dissolution.
In a farewell address delivered this afternoon, Mr. Chikote said serving as Minister of Energy had been one of the greatest honours of his life, describing his tenure as a journey marked by challenges, resilience and learning.
Mr. Chikote noted that when he assumed office, the country’s energy sector was facing severe pressure due to reduced water levels caused by climate change, rising electricity demand, aging infrastructure and years of underinvestment in power generation.
He said the situation resulted in prolonged load shedding which negatively affected households, businesses, hospitals, schools and industries across the country.
Mr. Chikote, however, said Government under the leadership of President Hichilema implemented bold reforms aimed at transforming the sector and restoring confidence in Zambia’s energy future.
He stated that Government embarked on diversifying the country’s energy mix through increased investment in solar, thermal and other renewable energy sources in order to reduce dependence on hydropower.
The Minister said Zambia is now witnessing increased investment in renewable energy projects, expansion of transmission infrastructure and growing investor confidence in the sector.
Mr. Chikote further said Government opened up the energy sector to greater private sector participation and strengthened regional cooperation through the Southern African Power Pool.
He added that the reforms undertaken are laying the foundation for a reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity supply, while positioning Zambia to become a regional energy hub.
And Mr. Chikote thanked staff at the Ministry of Energy, ZESCO Limited, the Energy Regulation Board, the Rural Electrification Authority and other stakeholders for their support and commitment to national development.
He also thanked President Hichilema for the trust and confidence placed in him during his tenure as Minister of Energy.
Mr. Chikote expressed confidence that Zambia’s energy sector will continue on a path towards energy security and sustainable growth.
Zambia Reports l 12th May , 2026.