The Engineering Institution of Zambia has recognised President Hakainde Hichilema for his efforts in advancing renewable energy and implementing reforms within the energy sector in response to climate related challenges.
Speaking at the 69th Annual General Meeting in Livingstone, EIZ President Wesley Kaluba commended the government’s policy direction, noting that it has opened up the sector to multiple independent power producers and reduced reliance on ZESCO, particularly following the 2023 to 2024 drought.
He also praised the Head of State for becoming the first Zambian president to officiate at an EIZ Annual General Meeting since the institution’s establishment, describing it as a strong signal of the government’s support for the engineering profession.
Mr. Kaluba indicated that the institution’s membership has grown to over 100,000, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to national development given the importance of engineering across all sectors of the economy.
He further welcomed the president’s approval of rate charges for engineers, stating that the move would strengthen professionalism and support the timely delivery of projects.
Additionally, he highlighted the appointment of seven engineers to Cabinet as clear evidence of the government’s recognition of the profession’s role in policy implementation and national development.