Maravi

Konga challenges new Rural Electrification board

Konga challenges new Rural Electrification board
Written by Nchima Nchito
Tuesday, December 09, 2008 12:03:55 AM

ENERGY minister Kenneth Konga has challenged the newly elected Rural Electrification Authority board to desist from giving excuses and deliver the expected results of the project.

Inaugurating the new board yesterday, Konga said even the excuse of lack of funds was no longer valid.

“The people of Zambia want to see results and not excuses,” he said.

He reminded the board that government had signed an agreement with World Bank through which a US$33 million credit would be available to support electrification activities in Zambia over the next five years.

“About US$19 million of this credit will go towards supporting rural electrification projects which include grid extensions, installation of solar photovoltaic systems, and construction of mini hydros” he said.

Konga further revealed that government was about to sign a grant agreement with the government of Sweden through which more than $30 million would be provided to the rural electrification fund to support projects.

“The government is just about to conclude an agreement with the government of Japan through which US$50 million credit will be made available to support projects identified from the rural electrification master plan,” he further added.

Konga directed the board to immediately settle and provide leadership in ensuring that all the funds mobilized were utilized effectively and efficiently.

Newly elected board chairperson Patrick Wenjelani who is also Barclays Bank Zambia finance director declared that his board would be proactive and results oriented.

Labels: KENNETH KONGA, RURAL ELECTRIFICATION AUTHORITY

posted by MrK @ 12:03 AM