REA signs 5 year MOU with CEEC

The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has signed a 5-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) in its continued efforts to upscale electricity uptake in rural communities.

Among the activities that will be implemented during the MOU include facilitating the provision of electricity infrastructure in rural areas with investment potential in order to attract private investors.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka today, REA Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Musonda says the partnership between REA and CEEC is a milestone in addressing the challenges of low electricity access and productivity in rural communities.

Pastor Musonda says the two parties will enter into separate contracts for each collaboration which will address in detail the scope of how the project will be implemented, administered, coordinated and funded.

He says this means that the cost of the MoU will only be determined once a detailed work plan and budget has been developed by the two parties.

Pastor Musonda is confident that such partnerships will ensure that the percentage of rural areas electrified in Zambia increases from 3.1 percent in 2006 to 51 percent by the year 2030.

And CEEC Director General Likando Mukumbuta says the signing of the MoU is a significant stride in fulfilling the commission’s mandate of promoting broad-based economic empowerment for targeted citizens.

Mr. Mukumbuta says the collaboration will enable CEEC to recommend potential areas to REA for consideration and electricity connection to actualise the objectives of rural investment.