Government invests €11 million in southern province…

Government has launched climate resilient infrastructure projects valued at over 11 million euros for roads, bridges and drainages in 7 districts of Southern Province. Minister of local government and rural development Gift Sialubalo says the KFW supported project under the capital grant scheme phase three will enhance connectivity to public institutions for rural communities especially those in flood-prone areas. He was speaking in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry Permanent Secretary for Technical services Gabriel Pollen during the ground breaking ceremony in Mazabuka District.

Sialubalo reveled that the project will be implemented in seven districts that include Mazabuka, Monze, Pemba, Gwembe, Sinazongwe, Choma, and Kalomo at a combined total cost of about 11.1 million euros, approximately 250 million ZMW.” And Sinazongwe Council Secretary Choolwe Maunga who noted that 38 kilometres of Tekelo road in Maamba is going to be upgraded to bituminous standard has extended gratitude to the Germany government for partnering with the Zambian Government in this project. She has noted that the Germany government has continued to support Zambia in infrastructure development citing examples such as the Siavonga council offices which were built under support from the Germany government through GIZ. Mazabuka Town Clerk Judith Maambo highlighted that the construction of climate-resilient drainage systems along 6 kilometres of roads in Mazabuka is crucial for addressing the district’s recurring flooding challenges.

Meanwhile Kalomo Central Member of Parliament Harry Kamboni urged citizens to avoid littering in the drainage systems in order to avoid blockages which consequently lead to flood and spread of water borne diseases. Kamboni who advocates for a cleaner Zambia has since called for a paradigm shift among citizens retorting that it was not only for government but every citizens responsibility to keep the country clean. Mazabuka Mayor Vincent Lilanda thanked the government for the project, noting that it had come to fruition after seven years of discussions with the sponsors. “This is a long-awaited project, we are glad that we sit here today for the sake of ground breaking” Mr Lilanda said.