EASTERN Province is about to get pimped up with a make over that will make even slay queens jealous.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gary Nkombo has officially flagged off the construction of modern markets and bus stations in four districts of Eastern Province today in Chipata.
The project, a collaborative effort between the Zambian government and the German government through the German Development Cooperation (KFW), aims to enhance the socio-economic well-being of citizens by improving infrastructure and empowering local authorities.
Nkombo said the four districts set to benefit from this initiative are Chipata, Lundazi, Katete, and Sinda.
The total cost of the project is estimated at K109.7 million.
“In Chipata district, we are set to commence the upgrade of Saturday and Nabvutika markets, as well as the construction of a modern intercity bus terminus at a total cost of K42.6 million,” Nkombo said.
“This project is expected to be undertaken within 12 months. in Katete district, the project will involve the construction of a market and a bus station at a total cost of K26.9 million;
while the construction of a market and a bus station is set to commence in Sinda district at a cost of K15.9 million,” said. Nkombo
He further disclosed that in Lundazi, the construction of a market and a bus
station will be undertaken at a cost of K25.2 million.
Nkombo also stressed the importance of effective maintenance and safeguarding these public facilities and called on the public to take ownership of the projects and prevent vandalism.
Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri said reiterated that the Infrastructure development that will be constructed will benefit the people of his province.
“I think it has been long overdue, we have challenges in Saturday Market… it’s one of the biggest market that we have in the district last year we had challenges where Cholera broke out in the same market. We anticipate that a better market will be put up with the support from the German government,” The Eastern Minister stated.
And Agricultural minister Mtolo Phiri highlighted the importance of the Infrastructure due to the fact that the Province is an agricultural area.
“This is an agricultural area and Chipata is also strong in horticulture and related products… Horticulture and agriculture is what has seen us through school in this province. And the markets which you have mentioned; Saturday Market Kapata Market, Navutika Market and the aspect of the bus stop [Station] is something that is very close to our hearts,” said Mtolo.
Meanwhile Minister of Local Government minister highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to decentralize power and decision-making to local authorities.
He emphasized that the construction of these markets and bus stations is a tangible demonstration of this commitment.
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba November 15, 2024
