Lusaka, July 10, 2025 – In a bid to protect critical power infrastructure and reinforce community safety, the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) has rolled out a dynamic new public awareness drive. The initiative, operating under the theme “Guard the Grid, Protect Our Future: Say No to Cable Theft & Vandalism”, seeks to rally communities around our shared mission—to report and help prevent acts that compromise electricity supply and public safety.

CEC’s new campaign arrives amid a worrying rise in theft and damage to electric cables and installations—crimes that not only threaten the reliability of power distribution but also pose grave risks to lives and livelihoods, especially in mining-dependent regions of the Copperbelt.

“These are not victimless crimes,” said Owen Silavwe, Managing Director of CEC. “Each stolen cable or damaged substation affects hospitals, schools, mining operations, and everyday citizens. This campaign is about preserving infrastructure and protecting our people and enabling economic stability.”

The campaign hinges on deepening collaboration across social layers—bringing together local businesses, law enforcement, community watchdogs, and education institutions in a concerted effort to report, prevent, and respond to incidents of sabotage. Workshops, radio discussions, school outreach, and joint patrols are part of the multi-pronged strategy.

“Infrastructure protection is a shared responsibility,” added Silavwe. “Our goal is to empower communities to take ownership and stand against these threats. The consequences are serious, both legally and socially—damaging infrastructure can lead to penalties of up to a decade in prison, or even life if fatalities occur.”

This proactive approach underscores CEC’s broader commitment to sustainability and community resilience, aligning with its long-standing track record of stakeholder engagement and responsible energy stewardship. As Zambia’s power needs grow, CEC is making it clear: safeguarding infrastructure is foundational to national progress.

To anonymously report suspicious activity, the public is encouraged to call CEC’s toll-free number 5050 on MTN and Zamtel.

Together, we can protect the power that drives our nation forward.

For more information, contact:

Precious S. Chisenga
Advisor – Investor Relations
Email: [email protected]