Zulu Backs Govt Electric vehicle Plan.

President Hakainde Hichilema announced the decision during his address to Parliament on Friday, citing geopolitical tensions affecting global fuel supplies.

“Given the instability in global fuel supply caused by geopolitical tensions, this Government has resolved that all Government institutions will now acquire only electric vehicles,” he said.

He added: “We will invest in charging infrastructure across the country, in partnership with the private sector. We urge businesses, co-operating partners and all citizens to join us in this transition to cleaner, more affordable and self-reliant transport.”

The announcement comes almost a year after Government, through Cabinet Office, unveiled its first electric vehicle.

Mr Zulu said the plan was achievable if implemented systematically and supported by sustained investment in energy infrastructure.

He said replacing fuel powered vehicles with electric ones in public institutions would create an initial market and demonstrate confidence in the technology.

“The electric mobility is not a stand alone policy. It is part of a broader national energy strategy that includes expanding electricity generation to 10,000 megawatts, strengthening transmission networks, promoting private sector participation, increasing solar deployment, and connecting Zambia more effectively to regional power systems,” he said.

Mr Zulu urged Government to establish a nationwide charging network in major cities, along highways, at public institutions, shopping centres, airports and border posts.

He also called for incentives to encourage private investment in electric vehicle imports, charging infrastructure, battery services and local assembly.

Mr Zulu said technical institutions should prepare for the transition by training engineers, technicians and entrepreneurs in electric vehicle technologies and battery management systems.