Rural Electrification Authority (REA) implements Intensification Project in Isoka District
Isoka,February 10, 2025, Government through the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), is implementing an intensification project for the Kalungu-Sansamwenje power grid to expand electricity access in the area.
The project, under REA’s 2025 budget and plan, aims to strengthen the existing network and connect more households, schools, health facilities, and businesses to the national grid.
Speaking on the initiative during a courtesy call to his office, on 2nd February 2025, Isoka District Commissioner Jairo Simbeye described the Kalungu-Sansamwenje intensification project as a transformational moment that will drive economic growth, improve education, and enhance healthcare services.
“This project is a testament to President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to empowering local communities. It has brought joy, and it will make a significant difference in their daily lives,” Mr Simbeye said.
The DC highlighted challenges faced by health facilities before being connected, creating difficulties in service delivery.
“Some hospital staff had to use phone torches to attend to patients at night, posing risks to both patients and medical personnel,” He explained.
Mr Simbeye urged the community to work closely with REA, render support to ensure sustainability.
“This is your project. Support it and ensure its sustainability for the benefit of all,” He stated.
And Senior Headman-Sansamwenje, Bright Siame, welcomed the project, emphasizing its impact on daily activities.
“We are grateful to REA for this intensification project. Our lives will be easier, and we can now use electrical appliances that were previously impossible to operate,” he said.
Sansamwenje Primary School Headteacher, Manduna Chimanga, described the initiative as a breakthrough for education in the area.
“Most schools recently received computers, but we could not use them because there was no electricity. Now, our learners will finally benefit from digital learning,” He said.
Meanwhile, Sansamwenje Health Post Environmental Health Technologist, Davies Kaputo, also expressed relief, in that not having electricity at the facility has been a setback in providing quality healthcare to patients.
“Attending to patients at night without electricity has been a major challenge. This project will help us provide better healthcare services, and we are truly grateful to the government and REA,” He said.
And Sansamwenje Ward Councillor Webster Silavwe, whose business was connected during the initial phase, acknowledged the economic benefits of electricity.
“My business has grown because I can now stock perishable goods in refrigerators. This is a great opportunity for other entrepreneurs to expand their businesses,” He said.
Various business owners in the area have also benefited from the project.
Tresphod Musoda, a stationary shop owner, explained how electricity had eased access to essential services.
“Before this connection, farmers had to travel long distances to Isoka just to print or photocopy documents. Now, we can do all that right here in our community,” He said.
Deophister Muwowo, a saloon owner, said the project had transformed enterprises like hers, explaining the need for equipment like blowers.
“Many businesses, such as hair saloons, require power for equipment like blowers. This connection has made it possible for us to run our businesses smoothly,” She said.
Another entrepreneur, Kamfwa Lazarous, credited the REA project for enabling him to start a butchery and bottle store. “Before we had power, it was impossible to operate such businesses. Now, I can store meat and drinks properly, and my business is growing,” He said.
