By Bheki Dlamini
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – With the evolving landscape of the energy sector, Zambia is changing its approach to ensure long-term sustainability and future-proof the industry.
Ahead of the C&I Energy + Storage Summit, Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote has launched a media campaign, describing it as a key step in raising national awareness about the importance of energy in Zambia’s economic transformation. The conference is scheduled for August 27th and 28th, 2025, and will bring together government officials, private sector players, development partners, financiers, and the media to discuss energy consumption and production in the commercial and industrial sectors.
The Minister noted that the energy sector is undergoing a significant transition globally and locally, driven by climate change, technological advances, and the demands of sustainable development. He emphasized that Zambia’s response must be bold, inclusive, and grounded in partnerships.
READ MORE: Africa Turns to Artificial Intelligence to Drive Its 50-Year Vision
Chikote explained that the upcoming summit will specifically focus on renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, financing mechanisms, and policy alignment to deliver practical solutions that ensure reliable and affordable energy for industries.
Highlighting government reforms, he mentioned that the Ministry is reviewing the Electricity Act and the Energy Regulation Act to respond to emerging realities such as renewable energy and energy storage.
“Other measures include strengthening the Energy Regulation Board, streamlining licensing and tariff-setting processes, and promoting public-private partnerships to accelerate modern energy infrastructure,” he stated.
Chikote urged the media to amplify key messages from the conference, recognizing their crucial role in shaping public discourse. Happy Chisenga Mbulo, Chief Executive Officer of Buterla Investment Holdings Limited, expressed pride in being the local partner for the event and introduced co-organizer VUKA Group, a South Africa-based leader in convening high-level industry forums across Africa.
Mbulo stated that the C&I Energy + Storage Summit is a timely response to Zambia’s growing demand for sustainable energy solutions and will serve as a high-impact platform for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and investment.
READ MORE: Mozambique LNG Project Set for Summer Restart, Saipem Confident Despite Past Delays
Stanbic Bank, one of the event sponsors, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s energy agenda. The bank pledged to leverage its financial expertise and regional presence to back renewable energy, infrastructure, and industrial projects in line with Zambia’s broader development goals.
Energy expert Dr. Johnston Chikwanda, in his vote of thanks, commended the Ministry of Energy for its leadership in guiding Zambia’s energy transition.
“The summit will not only address the immediate energy needs of the commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors but also lay the groundwork for a resilient, diversified, and sustainable energy future,” he said.
Dr. Chikwanda also thanked stakeholders, advisory board members, and the media for their contributions in making the conference a transformative platform that fosters action, investment, and partnerships.
