Zambia, DR Congo move forward on Luapula River hydropower project
Zambia, DR Congo move forward on Luapula River hydropower project
ZAMBIA and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are collaborating to establish the Luapula River Authority, a joint body that will oversee the development of hydropower plants on the Luapula River.
This project aims to address energy shortfalls in both countries and contribute to regional energy security.
Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Mike Mposha, announced the initiative during a workshop on water allocation and energy.
He highlighted that the legal framework for the authority is nearing completion and will be presented to the DRC for finalisation.
The Luapula River, which forms part of the border between Zambia and the DRC, has significant hydropower potential.
The joint authority will ensure the sustainable development of this resource to benefit both nations and potentially the wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Both Zambia and the DRC have large mining industries that require substantial energy supplies and the Luapula River hydropower project is seen as a critical step towards ensuring long-term energy security for these crucial sectors..
By Elesani Phiri
Kalemba