Desperate Times: Zambia's Power Crisis and the Battle for Survival

In the shadow of Lake Kariba, Tindor Sikunyongana struggles to keep his welding business afloat amidst Zambia's debilitating energy crisis. With rising costs and dwindling resources, Sikunyongana represents a growing number of Zambians facing the harsh realities of a climate-induced power shortage that has almost completely extinguished the nation's electricity supply.

The Dark Reality of Drought

“Only God knows when this crisis will end,” reflects Sikunyongana as he watches his diesel generator sputter to a halt. The heart of the problem lies in the Kariba Dam—a vital lifeline for Zambia, now crippled by severe drought conditions.

• Kariba Dam: The largest man-made lake in the world, located 200 kilometers south of Lusaka on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border.
• Drought Impact: Months of insufficient rain, worsened by the El Niño weather pattern, have led to a drastic reduction in hydroelectric power generation.
• Current Status: Only one out of six turbines is operational, generating less than 10% of normal output.

The Struggle for Daily Life

Across the capital city of Lusaka, individuals like Edla Musonda have resorted to hauling their desktop computers to local cafes just to find a power source. These cafes, equipped with diesel generators, have become makeshift offices for many, illustrating the lengths to which Zambians must go to adapt to the electricity shortage.

• Access to Electricity: Prior to the crisis, less than half of Zambia’s 20 million residents had electricity access; now, many face days without power.
• Impact on Education: Children are forced to complete homework by candlelight, and families are struggling to cook meals.
• Economic Consequences: Small businesses are faltering, threatening to increase poverty levels across the country.

A Call to Action

Economist Trevor Hambayi warns that the ongoing power crisis could have more devastating effects on Zambia's economy than the COVID-19 lockdowns. With over 80% of the country's electricity coming from the Kariba Dam, the implications of this energy crisis are dire.

Climate Change and Energy Dependency

Africa contributes minimally to global warming yet bears the brunt of its impacts. The extreme weather events plaguing the continent highlight the dangers of over-reliance on a single energy source that is heavily impacted by climate conditions. With hydroelectric power expected to rise from 17% to 23% of Africa's energy generation by 2040, Zambia's reliance on this method is becoming increasingly precarious.

Searching for Solutions

The Zambian government has urged citizens to explore solar power as an alternative energy source. However, the high cost of solar technology presents a barrier for many. In the meantime, the government has resorted to using diesel generators for essential services and is considering increasing coal-fired electricity generation.

Future Outlook

As the Kariba Dam remains at critically low water levels, experts express concerns about Zambia's long-term energy sustainability. The hope for recovery hinges on favorable rainfall patterns, which are unpredictable in the context of a changing climate.

“That’s not a solution… just to sit and wait for nature,” warns Hambayi, emphasizing the urgent need for diversified energy strategies.

What do you think?

• Is Zambia's reliance on hydroelectric power a sustainable strategy for the future?
• What alternative energy solutions could be implemented to mitigate this crisis?
• Should the Zambian government invest more in renewable energy sources despite the costs?
• How can international communities assist countries like Zambia facing climate-induced challenges?
• What role does climate change play in exacerbating power shortages across Africa?