- Zambia prepares for electricity imports and rationing amid severe drought crisis.
- President Hichilema reallocates resources to address the energy deficit.
Due to a severe drought, Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema announced plans for electricity imports and rationing. The drought, declared a national disaster, severely impacts hydropower generation, essential for the nation’s energy needs.
Hichilema warned of an energy deficit of up to 500 megawatts this year. Resources will be reallocated from the 2024 national budget to address the crisis.
Over a million farming households face imminent hardship due to extensive crop losses. Half of the planted crop, totalling 1 million hectares, has been destroyed by the drought.
Zambia grapples with debt restructuring efforts under the G20 Common Framework. Hichilema urged swift action to conclude the restructuring process and avert further economic turmoil.
International assistance is sought to mitigate the humanitarian impact of the crisis. Notable commitments have been made by entities such as Britain, the United Nations, and the World Bank.