LUSAKA - The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development has dismissed claims that the rehabilitation of the Livingstone-Sesheke Road is being undertaken because of the upcoming elections.
Speaking in an interview with Phoenix News, Permanent Secretary Professor Albert Malama said the delay in commencing the project was due to challenges in mobilising resources after plans to implement it under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement failed to materialise.
Professor Malama explained that the Government later assumed responsibility for financing the project, which has since been awarded to Sinohydro Corporation Limited, in a joint venture with Nchifar Enterprises Limited.
He said construction works are already underway and are expected to be completed within 24 months.
Professor Malama noted that the Livingstone-Sesheke Road is a strategic route along the Walvis Bay Corridor, playing a vital role in improving regional trade and connectivity between Zambia and neighbouring countries.
He added that the project forms part of the Government’s long-term infrastructure development programme and is not linked to the electoral calendar.
Professor Malama further said the Government will continue implementing road infrastructure projects regardless of election periods, as they are aimed at addressing the country’s long-term transport and economic development needs.
His remarks come amid concerns raised by some stakeholders over the recent resumption of rehabilitation works on the road by the Road Development Agency (RDA) through contractors Sinohydro Corporation Limited and Nchifar Enterprises Limited.
Source: Phoenix News