Zambia Army Signs Agreement for Three Solar Projects

Zambia’s push to expand solar generation has gained momentum with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Zambia Army and Kiyona Energy Limited for the development of three renewable energy projects. The agreement will see the Army provide land for a 30MW solar PV plant, a 4MW system for water pumping and residential supply, and a 5MW facility under the Green Cities Initiative.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lusaka, Army Commander Lieutenant-General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele said reliable electricity is critical to safeguarding national security, adding that the defence force is opening pathways for similar projects across its cantonments. ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo described the partnership as a strategic alignment of energy security, climate resilience and operational readiness, noting that it positions the Army as a champion of Zambia’s climate commitments.

The deal comes as Zambia accelerates efforts to add 1,000MW of solar power to the grid under its emergency diversification strategy, aimed at reducing dependence on hydropower, which still supplies more than 80% of national electricity. The target is being pursued through public-private partnerships, utility-led procurement and independent power producer projects backed by multilateral finance.