Zambia: Further 12-hour rolling power cuts likely to continue nationwide through at least early July /update 5

Zambia's energy provider, ZESCO, will likely continue to implement nationwide daily power cuts through early July. The utility has increased power cuts to 12 hours in Lusaka on May 27. The utility did not specify the reason, but it is likely due to a lack of power generation from the Kariba dam. The Zambezi River Authority, which manages the dam, has explained that water levels are around 12.8 percent in early June 2024, compared to 29.1 percent in early June 2023.

Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are possible while load management and unscheduled disruptions occur; cellular and mobile services could be affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are possible during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Power outages could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages.