Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Eng. Charles L. Milupi has conducted an inspection of ongoing road projects in Mazabuka and Monze Districts, Southern Province.
Among the projects inspected was the Rusangu to Monze Road, which is currently being upgraded to bituminous standard as part of the 62-kilometre Monze to Mazabuka Road rehabilitation project, valued at K699 million.
The Minister also inspected the 71-kilometre Monze to Niko Road (D365), which is undergoing an upgrade to bituminous standard.
The Road Development Agency (RDA) signed the contract for this project with Messrs. China Geo Engineering Corporation, in joint venture with Chipangano Builders Limited, on 7 November 2023. The contract is valued at K937,397,274.84.
Works on the project commenced on 21 November 2023 and is scheduled for substantial completion by 21 November 2025, with additional works—including the Bweemba Bridge—expected to be completed by July 2026.
During his visit, the Minister inspected a newly constructed six-cell, 6m by 4m in-situ box culvert at Chikumbwe Stream, designed to improve drainage during floods.
Hon. Eng. Milupi emphasized that the raised culvert boxes have been engineered with climate resilience in mind, ensuring the infrastructure can withstand changing weather patterns.
The Minister also reviewed progress on the Bweenga Bridge along the Monze to Niko Road.
The RDA Board Chairperson, Eng. Eugene Haazele explained that the old bridge was being replaced because its small openings frequently became blocked, impeding water flow.
The new structure will allow water to pass safely beneath it during heavy rains without compromising the bridge’s integrity, thereby enhancing safety and durability.
