15/02/2026
Cheap wiring can kill you, hire only EIZ certified electricians - ZESCO
HOMEOWNERS are putting their lives at risk by hiring unqualified electricians or allowing illegal power connections, ZESCO has warned.
According to the power utility company, one wrong move could spark a fire or cause electrocution, all because someone tried to save a few Kwacha.
Senior Regional Manager for the North Region, Vasco Mulele, said many accidents happen when people hire untrained workers.
“Cheap wiring is expensive. If the person doing your electrical work is not certified by the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ), they could leave a dangerous job that ends in fire or electrocution,” he said.
Mulele cautioned that all wiring must be done by qualified EIZ- registered electricians.
“We will intensify inspections. Once you report that wiring has been done, ZESCO will inspect and certify your installation to ensure it is safe,” he said.
He also warned about illegal connections, which are becoming a serious hazard.
“Some people pull lines illegally to bring power to their homes. Their work is never electrically sound. That is where electrocution happens. Before you know it, a conductor snaps and falls to the ground, putting everyone nearby at risk. Such cases must be reported to ZESCO immediately,” Mulele said.
He added that ZESCO’s safety exercises are not meant to punish, but to educate communities.
“Illegal connections will be corrected on the spot, and the public is urged to hire certified professionals and report unsafe wiring. Your life is worth more than saving a few kwacha,” Mulele added.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba February 14, 2026