Depletion of Zesco units alarms consumer body
By Thandizo Banda
THE Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) says there are increasing complaints from consumers across the country regarding the rapid depletion of Zesco prepaid electricity units.
ZACA noted the trend had continued to place an additional burden on households already struggling with the high cost of living.
Executive secretary Juba Sakala said consumers reported that electricity purchases that previously lasted several weeks were now being exhausted within a much shorter period, even where consumption patterns have not significantly changed.
“This situation has raised widespread concern about the high electricity tariffs and the impact of the tiered pricing system on ordinary households,” Sakala said .
ZACA noted that electricity was a basic necessity, essential for food preservation, cooking, lighting, education and small home-based businesses.
“The frequent need to purchase prepaid units is forcing families to divert limited income away from food, transport, health care and school requirements, thereby worsening household financial stress,” he added.
Sakala said while ZACA recognised the need for Zesco Limited to remain financially sustainable, the cost recovery should be balanced with consumer protection, particularly for low- and middle-income households who are most affected by rising tariffs.
“ZACA is further concerned about the limited public understanding of how prepaid units are calculated, the tariff bands applied, and how quickly consumers are pushed into higher-cost bands,” he said.
Sakala said a lack of clear and accessible information had contributed to confusion, frustration and declining consumer trust.
