Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Minister, Hon. Eng. Charles Lubasi Milupi today officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for upgrading to bituminous standard the 95 kilometres Nchelenge-Chienge Road via Kashikishi and Mununga in Luapula Province.
The contract for the project has been awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Zambia Limited in joint venture with Palmetto Trading Limited at a sum of K1,957,714,217.32. The duration of the contract is 36 months.
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to infrastructure development as a cornerstone of national progress. For years, the people of Nchelenge, Kashikishi, Mununga and Chienge have endured the challenges of poor road conditions—especially during the rainy season when mobility becomes nearly impossible.
“This has affected trade, access to services, and the overall quality of life. But today, we break ground on a move aimed at transformation, inclusion, and economic empowerment,” Hon. Eng. Milupi said during the groundbreaking held in Kashikishi.
The road project, once completed, will not only reduce travel time and improve safety, but it will also unlock the vast economic potential of this province. It will support agriculture, fishing, tourism, and cross-border trade with our neighbors in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Hon. Eng. Milupi the said the New Dawn Government was committed to ensuring that people travel safely from one destination to another.
“It is in this regard that Government has embarked on construction of transport infrastructure related facilities in order to provide safe and smooth travel experience, and reduced travel time,” he said.
Road Development Agency (RDA) Board Chairman, Eng. Eugene Haazele said the Nchelenge–Chienge Road was a vital artery that links communities, markets, schools, and health facilities across Luapula Province.
Eng. Haazele said the RDA was committed to ensuring that the project was executed to the highest standards.
“We will work closely with the contractor, consultants, and local authorities to ensure transparency, efficiency, and timely delivery.
“We also pledge to engage the community and the nation at large throughout the process—because this road belongs to our key stakeholders, the Zambian people. Your input, your vigilance, and your ownership are essential to its success,” he said.
