Energy projects in Zambia to be given presumptive approval – President Hichilema

President Hakainde Hichilema says he has instructed that all energy projects in Zambia should be given presumptive approval.

The President adds that all energy projects have to be processed quickly without any obstacles.

President Hichilema said this when he graced the Southern Province Investment and Trade Exposition in Livingstone today.

“For all investors looking for investment in energy, in this room or outside, submit your checklist standing in your way.

“No ZEMA or WARMA to say wait, so that we can end load shedding,” he said.

And President Hichilema says the country is on the right path to achieve one million tonnes of copper production this year.

“We are confident as we increase our exports, as we knock on the doors of one million tonnes of copper this year, never achieved in the history of mining in our country.

“Today we are talking about beef exports, a project we envisioned from opposition and started off by pronouncing beef zones,” the President added.

The Head of State further announced that the first shipment of beef exports would be landing to the customers in Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“Before we took public office in 2021, retirement benefits were outstanding for 20 years back. They have all been paid since we came into office. That’s why trade is important. To achieve that, is good leadership, intentional leadership. That’s what this government brings to the table,” he said.

President Hichilema also noted that since the reintroduction of the free education policy, 2.3 million learners have returned to school.

Additionally, the President announced that the cabinet has approved a multi facility economic zone in Monze District of Southern Province that will see the assembling of tractors once operational.

“We will be assembling tractors in Monze very soon. We want to see beef being processed, because of the beef zones we are doing, we want value addition. This means more jobs,” President Hichilema stated.

Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, described the recently signed Local Content statutory instrument as progressive to both investors and Zambian businesses.

And, Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, said the province is investing in technology such as irrigation schemes, mechanisation and agro processing industries that will not only boost productivity but also create jobs for the people.

He said the provincial administration is determined to translate policies into tangible outcomes that will build a region which produces and adds value to local products.

And President Hakainde Hichilema has urged traditional leaders across the country to make land available for investment opportunities that will stimulate economic growth and improve the livelihoods of their people.

Speaking in Livingstone today when he officially opened the 2025 Southern Province Investment and Trade Exposition, the Head of State emphasised that investors are eager to establish large-scale projects, particularly in renewable energy such as solar power, within chiefdoms.

He noted that such developments would create jobs, enhance energy access, and accelerate rural transformation.

President Hichilema commended progressive traditional leaders who have already embraced investment partnerships by providing titled land for development.

He cited Chief Mukuni among those who have allocated significant portions of land to investors, enabling the establishment of various infrastructure and energy-related projects.

The President stressed that unlocking land for sustainable investment remains a key driver of Zambia’s economic agenda, as it fosters inclusive participation and ensures that rural communities benefit directly from national development initiatives.

The Southern Province Expo, being held at the Livingstone Golf Club, has attracted local and international investors, exploring opportunities in energy, tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.