26/09/2025
MINISTER SITUMBEKO MUSOKOTWANE PRESENTS 2026 NATIONAL BUDGET, OUTLINES PLANS TO ADDRESS ENERGY SHORTAGE AND PROMOTE ECONOMIC GROWTH
By Vickram Emmesa Mubita, 26 th September,2025.
Lusaka, Zambia - Zambia's Finance Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, presented the 2026 National Budget to Parliament today, outlining the government's plans to address the country's energy shortage, promote economic growth, and improve public service delivery.
According to Minister Musokotwane, Zambia is facing a serious energy shortage, largely caused by the 2024 drought. However, he noted that the shortage also reflects the underinvestment in the energy sector since independence.
To address the energy shortage, the government plans to increase electricity generation capacity from non-hydro sources. Minister Musokotwane announced that 125 megawatts of solar energy will come on stream, with an additional 1,500 megawatts expected to be added in the next 12 months. Furthermore, a new thermal power plant at Maamba will add 300 megawatts to the national grid.
The minister also highlighted the importance of the energy sector reforms, which have enabled the private sector to participate in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. He noted that Zambia has been recognized as one of the leading reformers in Africa.
In addition to addressing the energy shortage, the government plans to promote economic growth through various initiatives. Minister Musokotwane announced that the manufacturing sector has attracted investments worth over US$4 billion, with the creation of over 31,000 jobs.
The government also plans to upgrade various roads, including the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway, which is expected to be completed before August 2027. Furthermore, the government will commence the construction of new airports, including those in Choma, Kasaba Bay, and Nakonde.
Minister Musokotwane also highlighted the government's efforts to promote small and medium enterprise development. He announced that over 103,000 individuals and 9,800 micro, small, and medium enterprises have been empowered with a total amount of K2.9 billion.
In conclusion, Minister Musokotwane emphasized the government's commitment to promoting economic growth, improving public service delivery, and addressing the energy shortage. He urged all stakeholders to work together to achieve these goals.
The 2026 National Budget has been welcomed by various stakeholders, who have praised the government's efforts to address the country's economic challenges. However, some have expressed concerns about the budget's ability to address the high levels of poverty and unemployment in the country.
(C) KFT PCT UPND MEDIA TEAM