- Solar energy will electrify 250 healthcare facilities in rural Zambia, boosting vaccine storage and medical services.
- The HFSE project will create over 200 jobs and benefit 1.3 million people across 95 districts.
Zambia is taking a significant step toward strengthening healthcare delivery through a solar energy initiative. This landmark project aims to electrify 250 rural healthcare facilities, ensuring reliable power for maternity wards, diagnostic equipment, and vaccine storage. As a result, the country is advancing toward better health outcomes while empowering remote communities.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Gavi, UNICEF, and the World Health Organisation (WHO), officially launched the Health Facility Solar Electrification (HFSE) project. The launch took place on August 24, with the Minister of Health, Dr Elijah Muchima, Gavi CEO Dr Sania Nishtar, and UNICEF Country Representative Dr Nejmudin Kedir Bilal in attendance.
Dr Muchima emphasised that the initiatives are transforming Zambia’s healthcare sector. He explained that sustainable power now supports rural health facilities, safeguarding vaccines and essential medicines while strengthening community health systems.
UNICEF revealed that the HFSE project will solarise facilities across 95 districts, reaching 1.3 million people in Zambia. Additionally, the project aligns with the DRIVE initiative, designed to improve vaccine delivery across 41 districts. These combined efforts will significantly enhance health equity.
Importantly, the project will create over 200 jobs, showing how strategic investments in health can improve livelihoods. Furthermore, the initiative contributes to long-term resilience by powering lights, digital tools, and essential medical equipment.
With approximately $28 million in funding, the HFSE programme will deploy 5–8kWp solar PV systems and cold chain equipment in four countries: Zambia, Ethiopia, Pakistan, and Uganda. If successful, the pilot could inspire co-investments and long-term government support for sustainability.
By June 2026, 1,277 health facilities across these countries are expected to benefit. Ultimately, 25 million people, including 1.3 million Zambians, will gain improved access to healthcare, immunisation, and essential medicines.