Returning from local leave, Zesco managing director Victor Mundende has made staff reshuffles and appointments at various levels within the utility.

The Zesco boss went on ‘local leave’ at the beginning of January 2018, leaving Director of Transmission Webster Musonda as acting Managing Director. In the midst of PF cadres accusing him of failing to empower ruling party youths with jobs and contracts, the Mundende’s leave fuelled speculation that it was politically motivated to pave way for investigations into his dealings.

But in a memo number 108/2019 dated February 8, 2019, which was addressed to all company managers and employees, Mundende authoritatively stated that he had implemented staff changes in an effort to enhance the company’s efficiency and service delivery.

Mundende relieved Director of Distribution Denis Banda and appointed his Lusaka divisional manager Yona Sichalwe as new to take over the position.

He has also appointed corporate affairs senior manager Patrick Mwila as the new director for strategy and corporate services, while chief engineer senior manager for electro technical services Collins Kavamba has been appointed as senior manager for transmission O and M South.

“In an effort to enhance our operational efficiency and service delivery to our esteemed customers, management wishes to advise you that the following staff changes have been made, with immediate effect: Mr Yona Sichalwe -Divisional Manager Lusaka Division has been appointed Director Distribution. Mr. Patrick Mwila – Senior Manager Corporate Affairs, has been appointed Director Strategy and Corporate Services. Mr. Collins Kavamba, Chief Engineer-Senior Manager – Electro Technical Services has been appointed as Senior Manager- Transmission, O and M South,” the memo read.

Mundende also transferred southern division manager Clement Silavwe to Lusaka in the same capacity, among other changes.

“Mr. Felix Chifwaila – Chief Engineer SCADA Projects has been appointed senior Manager – Electro Technical Services. Mr. Wilson S. Banda, Chief Engineer – small hydros has been appointed power station manager – ITPC. Dr Elenestina Mwelwa – Chief Environmental Scientist, South has been appointed Senior Manager – SHEQ. Mr Alex Mbumba -Regional Manager, Lusaka South has been appointed Divisional Manager – Southern Division. Mr Clement Silavwe -Division Manager, Southern Division has been transferred to Lusaka Division in the same capacity. Please be informed accordingly and it is my sincere hope that you will give them the necessary support,” stated Mundende in the memo.