Minister Kapala orders trict rules adherence to load shedding schedule

Energy Minister Peter Kapala has taken a firm stance on enforcing the official load shedding schedule, following widespread complaints of prolonged power outages exceeding 12 hours in some areas. The minister's directive comes in response to concerns raised by Bwacha PF Member of Parliament Sydney Mushanga in the National Assembly, highlighting the disruptive impact of unscheduled blackouts on daily life and economic productivity.

Kapala emphasized the importance of adhering to the scheduled 12-hour load shedding periods, citing the need for reliability and consistency in the power supply. The minister acknowledged the hardships caused by extended outages, which have resulted in significant economic losses and disrupted the daily lives of citizens.

The government's commitment to ensuring a consistent power supply is crucial for economic stability and growth. Small businesses, in particular, are vulnerable to the impact of prolonged outages, facing lost income and spoiled goods. The government's failure to provide reliable electricity erodes public trust and undermines the social contract between the state and its citizens.

Transparency and clear communication are essential in addressing the complexities of load shedding schedules. By demystifying the process, ZESCO and the government can empower citizens to engage meaningfully with the issue and hold authorities accountable. Acknowledging the emotional and practical toll of extended outages is also crucial, as it demonstrates an understanding of the daily struggles faced by citizens.

While holding ZESCO accountable for adhering to the schedule, it is important to recognize the challenges the company faces, including infrastructure limitations, financial constraints, and increasing demand for electricity. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring a reliable power supply that meets the needs of citizens and supports economic growth.