PRESIDENT HICHILEMA SATISFIED WITH PROGRESS ON LUSAKA-NDOLA DUAL CARRIAGEWAY
President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of works on the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway following an inspection of the flagship infrastructure project.
Speaking after touring sections of the road, President Hichilema said the project was advancing well and reaffirmed government’s commitment to delivering modern transport infrastructure without placing additional pressure on the national Treasury.
He said the road was being financed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), allowing government to channel public resources to other priority sectors.
“This landmark road is being delivered through a Public-Private Partnership. Not a single kwacha from the Treasury is going into it,” President Hichilema said.
The Head of State explained that the financing model enables government to invest more in essential public services such as education and healthcare while ensuring critical infrastructure projects continue.
“That is money left free for schools, clinics and medicines, while the road still gets built,” he said.
President Hichilema further disclosed that government had directed contractors to accelerate construction before the onset of the rainy season to ensure the project is completed on schedule and to improve connectivity for businesses and communities.
“We have directed the contractors to move even faster ahead of the rains, because every month saved means easier travel for Zambians and more room for business and trade to grow,” he said.
The President also stressed that government was pursuing an integrated transport strategy by rehabilitating the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) and Zambia Railways to reduce pressure on the country’s road network.
He added that regional airports were also being upgraded to enhance trade, tourism and investment across the country.
“Roads, rail and air, working together, connecting Zambians to opportunity,” President Hichilema said.
The President later interacted with residents of John C township, describing the engagement with citizens as the highlight of his day.