Zambia: Nationwide power outages continue as of mid-December /update 2

Event

Power shortages are likely to continue in the coming days and weeks across Zambia. This is due to an ongoing drought, which has resulted in low water levels at Kariba Power Station, located at the border with Zimbabwe. The situation has been worsened by limited import as South Africa's Eskom Holdings public utility company, which is the region's biggest supplier is experiencing significant difficulties to provide enough power capacity.

Associated transportation, business, and power disruptions are expected in the coming weeks. Demonstrations are also possible if power disruptions persist over the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Zambia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities, and keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible.