Africa Energy Forum slated for September, call for Energy solutions

ENERGY Forum for Africa (EFFA) is set to hold its 2025 conference in September, with Stanbic Bank Zambia sponsoring K750,000 towards the event.
EFFA Convener Hope Chanda highlighted the importance of finding sustainable and innovative solutions to Africa’s energy challenges.
“EFFA brings together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from across the globe to address the energy challenges and opportunities facing the African continent,” Ms. Chanda said.
She emphasized that Zambia’s goal of mining 3 million tonnes of copper per year by 2033 requires a minimum of 10,000 megawatts of energy.
“Our energy mix needs to be diversified as soon as possible. We need a just and equitable energy transition with a focus on access to energy for all. The world depends on us for the critical minerals necessary for renewable energy resource development,” Ms. Chanda said.
Stanbic Bank Zambia Chief Executive Officer Mwiindwa Siakalima presented a cheque of K750,000 to EFFA, noting that energy is a key driver of the country’s economy.
“As Stanbic, we know that without energy, we cannot drive other sectors of the economy,” Mr. Siakalima said.
He highlighted the bank’s support for the energy sector, including facilitating the financing of the 100-megawatt Chisamba solar energy plant.
“We heard last year from President Hakainde Hichilema where he called on all stakeholders in this room to join hands with Government to tackle the current energy crisis in our economy,” Mr. Siakalima said. He expressed pride in the bank’s role as EFFA’s platinum sponsor, increasing its support from last year’s K500,000.
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, represented by Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts Elvis Nkandu, emphasized that EFFA is a continental movement to unlock Africa’s full potential. “The current energy crisis should be looked at as an opportunity for others,” Mr. Chikote said.
He highlighted the government’s efforts to encourage investment in the energy sector, including streamlining the licensing framework.
“This project is more than a milestone; it is a statement of what is possible when Government and Business work together with a shared vision,” Mr. Chikote said.
He noted that most projects have not been implemented and that EFFA will provide a platform for developers and financiers to reach financial close.
Like last year, this year’s theme is: Investment opportunities in the energy sector in Zambia and Africa”.
This was said on Saturday during the official media launch and sponsor announcement of EFFA 2025 in Lusaka.