OVER K3 million has been paid to former Society Business Park tenants following the closure of the premises which led to their eviction.
National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) head of corporate affairs Cephas Sinyangwe confirmed the payment in a statement.
During a press briefing in July this year, NAPSA Board of Trustees chairperson Shipango Muteto said the authority would refund all tenants their security deposits and advance rental payments.
In addition, the Authority pledged to compensate all tenants six months’ worth of rent in lieu of notice, in accordance with the terms of their tenancy agreements.
“Following our commitment to support the tenants, we have paid compensation to tenants, refunded their security deposits and advance rental payments. To date, we have paid out K3.7 million to over thirty tenants,” said NAPSA director general, Muyangwa Muyangwa.
On July 30, 2024, NAPSA announced the immediate closure of Society Business Park after reports identified significant structural failures in the office block and parkade, rendering them unsafe for continued use.
According to NAPSA, considering that the unsafe sections were connected to the hotel and mall through common facilities, the closure of the office block and parkade necessitated the closure of the entire business park to ensure the safety and well-being of tenants and the public.
“The authority now awaits the engagement of engineering consultants to conduct a thorough study to recommend the best approach for addressing the structural concerns,” the statement read.
NAPSA shared that is committed to ensuring that all outstanding payments to former tenants are processed as administrative procedures are finalised.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba December 6, 2024
