The Zambia Consumer Association -ZACA- has challenged the power utility ZESCO to clarify whether load-shedding hours have been reduced from six to just four, calling for consistent and transparent power supply to citizens.
ZACA Executive Secretary Juba Sakala says affected consumers are frustrated, as current power supply patterns appear to contradict earlier assurances from both the government and ZESCO.
Mr. Sakala's sentiments come in the wake of reduced hours of power supply, despite Energy Minister Makozo Chikote recently announcing that citizens would have access to at least 10 hours of supply.
He notes that this is not a new situation, as Zambians have become accustomed to unmet promises on electricity supply, adding that the lack of explanation for failing to meet such promises makes it difficult for consumers to plan their lives.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Mr. Sakala has since urged the government and ZESCO to remain consistent and transparent, stressing that only open dialogue and adherence to schedules will build the public confidence needed in the power supply sector.
Efforts to get a comment from ZESCO Corporate Affairs Manager Rose Sibisi proved futile by broadcast time, as a press query sent to her had not yet been responded to.
PHOENIX NEWS