The project…..
Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Minister, Hon. Eng. Charles Lubasi Milupi has today officiated at a groundbreaking ceremony for upgrading to bituminous standard the Samfya-Kasaba Road via Lubwe in Luapula Province.
The construction of the Samfya–Kasaba Road via Lubwe, approximately 80 kilometres, along with 5 kilometres of township roads in Lubwe will be undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Zambia Limited in joint venture with Palmetto Trading Limited at a cost of K937,929, 384.70.
The ceremony was held at Katola Primary School in Chifunabuli District.
“This project is yet another demonstration of the Government’s unwavering commitment under the leadership of Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, to deliver infrastructure that meets the needs of our people.
Our development agenda…..
“Our national development agenda is to build a Zambia where no region is left behind, and where infrastructure development is used as a key to pedal economic growth and poverty reduction,” he said.
Hon. Eng. Milupi said this project aligned with the national development agenda and contributed directly to the efforts to unlock the economic potential of Provinces like Luapula—rich in natural resources.
Hon. Eng. Milupi said the road when upgraded to bituminous standard, the challenges being faced by the people will be ameliorated as there would be enhanced connectivity between communities and towns in Luapula Province.
There will also be improved access to social services, particularly for rural populations, reduced travel time and vehicle maintenance costs. Economic activities will also be boosted, especially agriculture, fisheries, and trade; and support tourism, by improving access to key sites in the Province.
He directed the contractor to ensure maximum use of local labour, local materials, and local expertise, in line with the government’s local content policy.
He said the New Dawn Government fully recognizes that quality road infrastructure attracts investment, spurs trade and enables local enterprises and cooperatives to thrive.
highest standards of quality….
“It is for this reason that we have acted decisively to upgrade the Samfya-Kasaba Road, which for far too long has been in a poor state. The New Dawn Government remains committed to prioritising infrastructure development across the country as an avenue for accelerated economic growth,” he said.
Road Development Agency (RDA) Board Chairman, Eng. Eugene Haazele the Agency working with the contractor and consultant, was committed to delivering this project to the highest standards of quality, durability and safety.
changing climate…
Eng. Haazele said the road will be built using designs that take account of our changing climate — adequate drainage, well-designed culverts and bridges, and resilient pavement solutions that minimize future maintenance costs.
“We will ensure full compliance with environmental and social safeguards to protect wetlands, fisheries and other natural resources that are essential to local livelihoods,” he said.
Eng. Haazele said the RDA was also committed to value for money, transparency and accountability.
“The Agency will closely monitor progress against agreed milestones, and we will work with the contractor and consultants to ensure timely delivery within the terms of the contract. Regular updates will be provided to the public so that communities know how the project is progressing and how it benefits them,” he said.
