CEJ URGES GOVT TO CHANNEL BRIDGE FUNDS TO ZNS

The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has urged government to channel all national bridge-construction funds exclusively through the Zambia National Service (ZNS).  


CEJ Executive Director Maggie Mapalo Mwape cited the institution’s consistent delivery of durable, cost-effective, and timely infrastructure.  


Ms Mwape emphasised that ZNS has proven itself as the most dependable and rapid-response agency for bridge construction across the country.  


“With a disciplined workforce, modern equipment, and a clear mandate to support national development, ZNS is uniquely placed to ensure that every kwacha allocated to bridge construction results in safe, long-lasting infrastructure—even when the need is urgent,” Mwape explained.  


She highlighted ZNS’s ability to complete projects ahead of schedule, operate without profit-driven costs, and mobilise swiftly in remote or disaster-affected areas where private contractors may be unable or unwilling to respond.  


Ms Mwape also pointed to the institution’s nation-building ethos, noting that as a civic body, ZNS instils a strong sense of ownership and pride in every project, which translates into higher construction standards and a stronger maintenance culture.  


She referenced several successful projects completed by ZNS, including the 120-metre Chisamba Bridge (2018), the 85-metre Kamboni Bridge in Luapula (2019), the 70-metre Munyama Bridge in Muchinga (2020), and the 95-metre Kashiba Bridge in Northern Province (2021).  


More recent works include the 60-metre Lumumba Bridge in Lusaka (2022), the 110-metre Mafuta Bridge in Eastern Province (2023), and the Kankumba Bridge in Rufunsa, completed in just 24 hours in December 2025, reopening the Great East Road.  


Ms Mwape proposed the establishment of a joint oversight and assessment committee comprising ZNS, the Road Development Agency (RDA), the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), and independent technical experts from the Ministry of Infrastructure.  


She affirmed that assigning bridge construction to ZNS is a strategic investment in a nationally committed institution that supports economic development and strengthens Zambia’s resilience to climate-related challenges.


By Evans Sinjela

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