Zambia Targets 10GW Capacity by 2030

The Zambian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a borderless and sustainable energy future for Africa, setting a target of achieving 10 gigawatts of power generation by 2030.

Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, said the country remains focused on actualising pipeline energy projects aimed at strengthening domestic supply and enhancing regional energy security.

Chikote made this known in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Ministry’s Director for Energy, Mafayo Ziba, at the Energy Forum for Africa Conference 2026 project progress report and media launch gala dinner in Lusaka.

He noted that progress recorded across ongoing projects underscores the impact of sustained commitment and multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving the continent’s energy agenda.

“What we have seen from the projects showcased here today is a clear call to action to focus on actualising the pipeline of projects before us. Our commitment and consistency are beginning to yield real results, and we must see this through to the very end, which is achieving 10 gigawatts by 2030,” he said.

The minister described the Energy Forum for Africa Conference 2026 as a strategic platform that has evolved beyond dialogue into a driver of tangible outcomes, bringing together policymakers, investors, and industry players.

“Over the past two years, the Energy Forum for Africa has grown into more than just a conference. It is now a platform where policy meets investment, innovation meets implementation, and dialogue translates into measurable progress.

“Africa’s energy future must be shaped by Africans, for Africans, in partnership with the global community,” he added.

Chikote further disclosed that the 2026 edition of the conference, scheduled to hold from October 7 to 9 in Lusaka, will be themed “Driving a Borderless Energy Future for Africa,” reflecting the continent’s ambition to deepen regional integration as a pathway to energy security.

“The journey toward a borderless energy future for Africa is not without challenges, but it is a journey worth taking. Zambia remains committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions and working with partners to ensure that the region becomes energy secure and economically empowered,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, Convener of the forum, Hope Chanda, said the initiative has continued to evolve into a results-driven platform delivering measurable outcomes for the energy sector.

Chanda noted that the forum’s regional engagements are designed to unlock collaboration and strengthen Africa’s energy market, while emphasising the importance of local participation in shaping the continent’s energy future.

Similarly, the Programme Manager of the forum, Yvonne Mulasikwanda, said the gathering reflects progress made in strengthening Zambia’s energy sector through innovation and partnerships.

She added that the platform continues to provide critical opportunities for engagement among key stakeholders across the energy value chain.