LUSAKA, June 26 -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday urged the private sector to capitalize on the current electricity deficit by investing in new power generation projects.

Addressing the nation during a press briefing, Hichilema said that while the government is implementing measures to address the crisis, all stakeholders must collaborate to find sustainable solutions.

Among the initiatives, the president said that the government has partnered with Maamba Collieries Limited to begin construction on the second 300-megawatt thermal-powered plant, with 90 million U.S. dollars secured for initial works. Currently, the company operates a 300-megawatt thermal power plant.

Highlighting the recently launched open access policy in the energy sector, Hichilema said the private sector is encouraged to seize the opportunity for investment in electricity generation and supply.

The government is committed to ensuring uninterrupted power supply, given the current 750-megawatt deficit caused by low water levels in hydroelectric generation following inadequate rainfall.

In response to the crisis, Zambia's state-run power utility has initiated a 12-hour daily rotational power cut schedule. And the government is developing a lifeline power supply for small and medium enterprises in communities to mitigate the impact of the electricity shortage.

  - Xinhua