PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has unveiled a beacon of efficient infrastructure development, the newly completed Chingola-Kasumbalesa Road.
This project stands as a testament to the success of Zambia’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The road, a vital artery connecting Chingola and Kasumbalesa, is more than just a smoother route for travellers.
President Hichilema highlighted its significance: “This road tackles travel delays and reduces transportation costs for our citizens.”
What truly sets this project apart is its remarkable affordability.
President Hichilema disclosed that it was constructed under a US$31 million PPP agreement, the road came in at nearly half the cost initially projected by the previous government.
Despite the significant budget reduction, President Hichilema assured Zambians that the road is built to last and was delivered on schedule.
The benefits go beyond cost savings. The Chingola-Kasumbalesa Road is poised to be a catalyst for economic growth.
By facilitating seamless traffic flow to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the road unlocks new avenues for trade, generating revenue and propelling economic expansion.
The successful completion of the Chingola-Kasumbalesa Road under a PPP model signifies a new era of efficient governance and collaboration between public and private sectors.
“Part of the goods and services we want to provide to the Zambian people requires money so when there is a return on the investment we can have a claim of profitability that comes out of the Chingola – Kasumbalesa road,” President Hichilema said.
“We want at any point to have hundreds or more projects of such nature going on at the same time and then we are going to see the effects of that on the economy as they will be delivering profits, jobs, and contracts for people.”
This project serves as a blueprint for future infrastructure development, prioritising affordability, quality, and timely execution.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, April 13, 2024
