MAAMBA Solar Energy Limited has launched the construction of a 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Maamba, Southern Province, Zambia. MAAMBA Solar Energy Limited has launched the construction of a 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Maamba, Southern Province, in what the government has described as a “game-changing” step towards ending the power crisis and advancing Zambia’s climate and energy goals.  This is according to a press statement issued by Langmead & Baker Ltd. The project was officially launched by the Minister of Energy, Hon. Makozo Chikote, MP, on 22nd September at a groundbreaking ceremony attended by government officials, investors, community leaders and residents. “Maamba Solar Energy Limited have responded to the vision, to restore the stability in the energy sector and improve our energy mix,” said Hon Minister Chikote. “Zambia depended so much on hydro and when this drought hit us, this administration, when it took over, was able to think outside the box. We started by exploring other alternative sources of energy such as the one we are doing today here at Maamba.” The Minister further stated the government has lined up a number of solar projects to make sure that the country will never again find itself in the situation that it is going through – loadshedding. “That’s how we have planned our energy mix and we will continue putting and addressing the power deficit both in the immediate, medium and long term.” Once completed in mid-2026, the plant will supply 100 MW of clean energy to the national grid. Combined with Maamba Energy’s Phase II thermal expansion — expected to bring its capacity to 600 MW — the town of Maamba is set to deliver 700 MW of power by next year. Maamba Solar Energy Director Ashwin Devineni said the solar initiative highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to Zambia’s growth and energy diversification. “This 100 MW solar project is a critical step in diversifying Zambia’s energy mix and supporting the government’s ambition to add 1,000 MW of solar capacity to the national grid,” he said. The solar development is part of the government’s broader national plan to add 1,000 MW of renewable energy capacity to the grid, under what the government has called Mission 300 – Universal Access to Power. The new investment in solar will be pivotal in cushioning the economy against climate shocks and changing weather patterns. The solar project represents more than clean power. It symbolises a transition to renewable energy, a reduction in carbon footprint, and the deployment of advanced bifacial solar modules with the highest levels of efficiency. “Our interest is to ensure that electricity reaches every Zambian household while supporting economic growth,” said Hon Minister Chikote. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has seized two trucks carrying smuggled alcoholic beverages and cosmetics, with a total revenue loss estimated at over K4.9 million. THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has seized two trucks carrying smuggled alcoholic beverages and cosmetics, with a total revenue loss estimated at over K4.9 million. ZRA Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala said the interceptions occurred on the same night, with both trucks using an unauthorised gate and route from the Chirundu One Stop Border, assisted by private security hired to safeguard the border premises. Mr Nzala said the first truck, which had an accident on the undesignated route, was laden with assorted alcoholic beverages. He said the second truck was discovered using the same route after security footage was reviewed and was intercepted at local truck yards in Chirundu. “The consignments and trucks have been seized for smuggling and conveyance of goods liable to forfeiture under the Customs and Excise Act. The revenue loss from smuggled alcohol is K4.1 million, while cosmetics account for K805,000,” he said. He warned importers and transporters involved in similar schemes that they risk having their goods and trucks seized, forfeited to the state, and facing prosecution in the courts. “By taking decisive action against these fraudulent activities, the Authority aims to promote legitimate trade. All importers are encouraged to declare goods accurately. The public and transporters are also urged to report any potential smuggling to the Zambia Revenue Authority,” Mr Nzala added. Legalising 2- and 3-Wheelers: Unlocking Zambia’s Transport Economy Legalising 2- and 3-Wheelers: Unlocking Zambia’s Transport Economy By Dr. Lubinda Haabazoka When President Hakainde Hichilema recently opened Parliament, he underscored the importance of inclusive economic growth. Transport is one of the most visible areas where inclusivity matters. Today, thousands of Zambians queue endlessly for minibuses or spend hours stuck in Lusaka’s traffic jams, while in rural districts many communities remain cut off from clinics, markets, and schools. And yet, the solution is already around us. Motorcycles and tricycles—popularly known as 2- and 3-wheelers—are quietly transforming rural and peri-urban mobility. In provinces such as Eastern and Luapula, they are the most reliable and affordable mode of transport. The time has come to recognise this reality by legalising and regulating them nationwide. A Tool for Inclusive Growth At an average price of K20,000, a motorbike costs barely a third of a second-hand car. This low entry cost explains why registrations at the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) nearly doubled between 2022 and 2023. For many young people, a motorcycle is not just transport; it is a job. From courier services to informal taxis, 2- and 3-wheelers provide thousands of livelihoods. By legalising them, government can unlock even greater opportunities: licensing, taxation, and regulation would ensure revenue collection while formalising an industry that already exists in practice. Far from being a burden, this would expand Zambia’s tax base and increase compliance with safety rules. The Rural Lifeline For a farmer in Chongwe or Lundazi, a motorbike is the difference between reaching the market in time or losing produce to spoilage. For a mother in a remote village, a tricycle can mean a quick trip to a clinic when a child falls ill. These