Nalumango lights up Meheba refugee settlement with K16 million grid
VICE President Mutale Nalumango has officially commissioned a K16 million electricity grid at the Meheba Refugee Settlement in Kalumbila District.
The project is expected to bring significant improvements to the lives of over 40,510 residents by providing power to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential buildings.
Speaking at the ceremony held at Meheba Boarding Secondary School, Nalumango emphasised the government's commitment to supporting refugees.
"In our beautiful country, Zambia, we are no strangers to the plight of refugees. For decades, we have provided shelter and support to those fleeing conflict, persecution and adversity," stated Nalumango.
"We have students and teachers, doctors and farmers, artists and entrepreneurs and their experiences and talents invigorate our economy and culture demonstrating that they are not a burden but integral contributors to the fabric of our national economy."
Nalumango highlighted the recently implemented National Refugee Policy and Implementation Plan, which aims to improve the protection and well-being of refugees in Zambia.
This includes ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
The electrification project is a collaborative effort between the Zambian government, represented by the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the Commission for Refugees.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Tambatamba, representing Energy Minister Peter Kapala, urged the refugees to use electricity responsibly and take ownership of the infrastructure provided.
"I also urge you to take ownership of what has been delivered by Government, by safeguarding it," she advised.
UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations Raouf Mazou expressed gratitude to the Zambian government for its continued support of refugees.
The commissioning ceremony coincided with the 2024 World Refugee Day yesterday, themed "Empowering Refugees: Developing Solutions and Skills for a Brighter Future."
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, June 21, 2024