The National Energy Sector and Allied Workers Union has warned that continued vandalism of electricity infrastructure amounts to economic sabotage that is undermining Zambia’s development efforts and weakening the country’s push for a stable power supply. The union says the destruction and theft of critical installations owned byZESCO, including transformers and power cables, is draining the utility’s financial resources and disrupting electricity supply in several communities. According to the union, these acts frequently result in prolonged blackouts that are often mischaracterised as load shedding, when in reality they are the direct consequence of criminal activity.
Union representative Mr Siankulu said vandalism of public energy infrastructure directly compromises national productivity and economic growth. He noted that reliable electricity supply is a foundation for industrial activity, service delivery, and job creation, and any deliberate interference with that supply weakens the broader economy. He explained that when transformers and cables are stolen, entire neighbourhoods are left without power for extended periods, affecting households, businesses, and public institutions.
In many cases, residents blame the outages on power rationing, despite the fact that the disruptions are caused by theft and destruction of infrastructure. Mr Siankulu said the financial burden of replacing stolen equipment has become a major constraint for the power utility. Funds that could be invested in network expansion, system upgrades, and new generation projects are instead channelled toward repairing vandalised installations and restoring supply to affected areas.
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The union has therefore called on government to adopt tougher legal measures against vandalism of public infrastructure. It has proposed that vandalism of electricity installations be classified as a non-bailable offence, with a minimum custodial sentence of 25 years upon conviction. Union leaders believe stricter penalties would deter offenders and protect strategic national assets.
In addition to legal reforms, the union urged members of the public to actively participate in protecting electricity infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities and refusing to engage in the purchase or resale of stolen electrical equipment. The call comes as the energy sector continues to navigate challenges linked to climate variability. In recent years, erratic rainfall patterns have contributed to reduced hydropower generation and unstable electricity supply.
However, prospects for improvement have emerged following above-normal rainfall during the 2025/2026 rainy season. Although the heavy rains have resulted in flash floods in some areas, they have also replenished water levels in major reservoirs, creating conditions for increased power generation. Mr Siankulu said this development offers an opportunity for improved electricity supply if infrastructure is adequately protected.
He further noted that government investment in energy diversification is beginning to deliver tangible results. The integration of hydropower with solar energy projects is strengthening Zambia’s generation mix and reducing over-reliance on a single source of power. According to the union, this approach positions Zambia to achieve a more predictable and resilient electricity supply. The union added that improved stability in power generation enhances Zambia’s competitiveness as an electricity producer and supplier within theSouthern African Development Community, where demand for reliable power continues to grow.
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