Zambia's electricity blackouts have been caused by a severe drought in the region that has left the critical Kariba dam with insufficient water to run its hydroelectric turbines.

Less than half of Zambia's 20 million people had access to electricity before Kariba's problems. Millions more have now been forced to adjust as mothers find different ways to cook for their families and children do their homework by candlelight.

“Only God knows when this crisis will end,” said Sikunyongana. His generator ran out of diesel and spluttered to a halt as he spoke. “You see what I mean?” he said.