GROUND BREAKING OF MUKUTUMA-LUMPUMA ROAD

 

Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Eng. Charles Lubasi Milupi, has said that the Kalulushi–Mukutuma Road via Lumpuma project will play a critical role in unlocking the economic potential of the Copperbelt Province, a region richly endowed with natural resources and opportunities.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the approximately 103-kilometre road in Lufwanyama District, Hon. Eng. Milupi stated that the project aligns with the national development agenda.

“This project aligns with our national development agenda and will play a critical role in unlocking the economic potential of the Copperbelt Province. The favourable agricultural, trade, and investment policies implemented by the New Dawn Government, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, are already attracting increased investment into the province,” he said.

He added that renewed industrial and agricultural activity was already being witnessed in Lufwanyama and surrounding districts.

“The upgrading of this road will facilitate the efficient movement of goods and services, including equipment, machinery, raw materials, finished products, and, most importantly, people,” Hon. Eng. Milupi said.

The Minister noted that the Government of the Republic of Zambia has embarked on an ambitious programme to upgrade and reconstruct key infrastructure across the country, with the Kalulushi–Mukutuma Road via Lumpuma being one of the priority projects.

“This project is yet another demonstration of Government’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, to deliver infrastructure that responds to the needs of our people,” he said.

He further emphasised that the New Dawn Government’s development agenda is anchored on building an inclusive Zambia where no region is left behind, and where infrastructure development acts as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.

“This road will reduce travel time, improve safety, and strengthen connectivity. It will link farmers to markets, students to schools, patients to hospitals, and entrepreneurs to new opportunities. It is indeed a road to inclusivity, empowerment, and transformation,” he said.

Hon. Eng. Milupi urged the contractor to strictly adhere to Government policy on quality standards and timely delivery.

“As the Minister responsible for infrastructure development, I will accept nothing less. Projects of this magnitude must provide employment opportunities, particularly for the youth of Lufwanyama. The contractor is therefore directed to prioritise local labour,” he said.

He also emphasised that the project should create opportunities for small-scale contractors through subcontracting arrangements, in line with Government policy.

The project will be undertaken by China Jiangsu International Economic Technical Cooperation Zambia Limited in joint venture with Jearmy Enterprises Limited.

The contract is valued at ZMW 1,691,516,469.10, and the project is expected to be completed within 30 months.

Road Development Agency (RDA) Board Chairman, Eng. Eugene Haazele, said the Agency is proud to play a central role in delivering infrastructure that connects people, supports economic growth, and enhances quality of life.

Speaking on his behalf, RDA Board Vice Chairperson Dr. Ngoza C. Munthali reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that meets the highest standards.

“This project will be implemented with strict adherence to engineering specifications, as well as environmental and social safeguards. We are committed to ensuring high-quality works, incorporating road safety features for all users, and respecting environmental and social considerations throughout the project lifecycle,” she said.

She added that the RDA will work closely with both the consultant and contractor to ensure timely delivery.

“To the contractor, we expect professionalism, efficiency, and adherence to contractual obligations. Deliver a road that the people of Zambia will be proud of—one that will stand the test of time,” she said.

Meanwhile, Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo said upgrading the road to bituminous standard will attract both local and foreign direct investment.

And China Jiangsu International Economic Technical Cooperation Zambia Limited General Manager, Troy Zhang, assured stakeholders that the company will work closely with the consultant, RDA, and the community to deliver the project within the stipulated timeframe.

Mr. Zhang, however, noted that timely payments through the National Road Fund Agency will be key to ensuring smooth project implementation.

Credit: RDA