• Infrastructure development is critical to opening up development for the entire country.
• Growth for demand of electricity in the country has accelerated investment in the energy sector.
• More than 600 Chinese companies operating in Zambia with an investment of US$3.8 billion.
President Edgar Lungu has commissioned Turbine number 2 at the 750 megawatts Kafue Gorge Lower Hydro Power Station in Chikankata District of Southern Province.
Speaking during the event, President Lungu said infrastructure development is critical to opening up development for the entire country adding that economic gains that will be accrued from these investments will benefit the country, “and will outlive not just the current huddles we are facing but will outlive all of us who are present here.”
The Head of State further noted the country has over the years seen increased demand for electricity to power activity in various sectors such as mining and agriculture among others.
He noted that the growth for demand of electricity in the country has accelerated investment in the energy sector.
“It is no secret ladies and gentlemen that my government continues to invest in roads clinics and hospitals, airports and power infrastructure such as the one we are witnessing today,” President Lungu stated.
Speaking at the same event, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Lie Jie said the Kafue Gorge 750 Mega Watts Hydro power station when in full operation will become a key energy producer for Zambia and greatly reduce the current power shortage with national power supply expected to increase by 38 percent.
Ambassador Jie further revealed that there are more than 600 Chinese companies operating in Zambia with an investment of US$3.8 billion creating more than 50,000 local jobs.
“Zambia has become one of the best destinations for China’s investment in Africa,” said the Ambassador.
He noted last year amid the Covid-19 pandemic Zambia still attracted US$500 million investment from China ranking number one in Africa.
According Ambassador Jie, border trade between Zambia and China reached US$4 billion with Zambia enjoying a trade Surplus of US$2.6 billion.
