Rea hailed for connecting rural homes to electricity

By BARNABAS ZULU in Samfya

BANGWEULU aspiring Independent Member of Parliament Reuben Chama has commended the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) for extending electricity to rural communities in the constituency.
Mr Chama said the move is a game changer in improving the lives of people in rural areas.
“I want to sincerely thank the Rural Electrification Authority for the great work they are doing in Bangweulu,” Mr Chama said.
“This is what development looks like – bringing power to the people, especially those in remote areas who have for years depended on candles, firewood and charcoal.”
He said the provision of electricity in rural areas would enhance economic activities, improve access to information, and uplift the standard of living for many families.
“Electricity means our children can now study at night, our women can venture into small businesses like salons and welding shops and our clinics can now store medicine properly,” he added. “This is more than just power; this is empowerment.”
Mr Chama, who has positioned himself as a development-focused leader, urged REA to continue with the programme and ensure that all remaining rural communities are covered.
“I appeal to REA not to stop here. Let them reach every corner of Bangweulu. Every Zambian, regardless of where they live, deserves access to electricity,” he said. REA has in recent months accelerated its rural grid extension works in Luapula Province, in line with Government’s agenda to increase electricity access to at least 66 percent of the population by 2030.