AfDB funds Zambia power

The African Development Bank (AfDB) is to provide up to US$ 150 million in financing for improvements to Zambia’s power network.

The funds will finance a 300 MW coal-fired power plant as well as the revamping of the Maamba coal mine.

The project aims to tackle a severe environmental concern at the mine caused by the unregulated and spontaneous self-combustion of tons of currently unused low-grade coal while producing much-needed electricity for the country and the region.

The Maamba power plant project aims to increase the supply and reliability of electricity in Zambia, which is currently experiencing blackouts and is heavily reliant on drought-sensitive hydropower.

Maamba Collieries is developing the project.