Zambia, Mozambique partner on 1,500MW power project to boost regional energy supply
Zambia and Mozambique have announced plans to jointly develop a 1,500-megawatt electricity generation project known as Mphanda Nkuwa on the Zambezi River in Mozambique.
The ambitious project is expected to significantly boost power generation capacity for both countries and contribute to regional energy stability.
President Hakainde Hichilema said the partnership demonstrates the two nations’ commitment to deepening economic cooperation and achieving sustainable energy development.
He emphasized that Zambia and Mozambique must enhance trade by improving cross-border infrastructure and energy interconnectivity.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting held at State House in Lusaka, President Hichilema described the project as a strategic opportunity to strengthen industrial growth and attract investment in both countries.
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo confirmed that a high-level delegation from Zambia will visit Mozambique in the second week of next month to gain a deeper understanding of the Mphanda Nkuwa project’s scope and potential.
He said the visit will allow Zambian officials to appreciate the technical, financial, and environmental dimensions of the planned development.
President Chapo expressed confidence that the joint initiative will not only enhance power generation but also foster regional economic integration and private sector participation.
“And amongst us, as African brothers, we can also develop this project together, invest in this project together so that we can generate energy for our countries, and also income for the private sector which we think this project is very important,” he said.
He explained that the collaboration reflects a spirit of African solidarity and shared vision for self-reliance in energy production.
President Chapo revealed that Electricity of Mozambique (EDM) and Zesco Limited of Zambia are already working closely to expand power generation and transmission capacity in the region.
He cited the ongoing development of the second phase of the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric project in Tete Province, Mozambique’s main power generation hub, as part of broader efforts to boost electricity supply.
According to Chapo, expanding Cahora Bassa and constructing Mphanda Nkuwa will collectively transform Mozambique into a regional energy powerhouse and create surplus electricity for export.
He said the cooperation between EDM and Zesco underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving energy security and industrial competitiveness across Southern Africa.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations beyond energy, highlighting opportunities in trade, transport, and agriculture.
President Hichilema stressed that improved power supply will play a critical role in driving Zambia’s manufacturing and mining sectors, thereby enhancing economic productivity.
The Mphanda Nkuwa project, once completed, is expected to supply power not only to Zambia and Mozambique but also to other countries within the Southern African Power Pool.
Analysts say the initiative aligns with Africa’s broader goal of leveraging renewable energy resources to promote sustainable industrialization and regional development.
As the two nations move forward with this historic collaboration, the Mphanda Nkuwa project stands as a symbol of shared progress, regional cooperation, and the pursuit of energy independence in Southern Africa.
