KAPIRI MPOSHI – National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) presidential candidate Brian Mundubile has pledged to revive the Kapiri Mposhi Glass Factory if elected, saying the move would create jobs for young people and stimulate industrial growth.
Speaking during a campaign rally in Kapiri Mposhi, Central Province, Mr. Mundubile said reopening the factory would form part of his administration's broader strategy to promote employment and economic empowerment.
The Eagle Glass Manufacturing Company, commonly known as the Kapiri Mposhi Glass Factory, was established to utilise the area's abundant silica sand deposits to manufacture flat and laminated glass for both local and export markets.
The US$15 million facility resumed operations in January 2020 but suspended production in March 2021 due to challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and competition from cheaper imported glass products.
Its closure resulted in the loss of more than 100 jobs.
In addition to reviving the factory, Mr. Mundubile pledged to introduce a vehicle financing programme aimed at helping young people become self-employed.
"My government will be giving youths vehicles on loan and they will be paying slowly because they need to be self-employed," he said.
On healthcare, the NRPUP presidential candidate said his government would construct more hospitals in Kapiri Mposhi and reduce the waiting period for volunteer nurses before permanent employment.
"Six months will be the maximum time frame for volunteers. After that, they will be employed," he said.
Mr. Mundubile also promised to expand the free education programme by providing pupils with free school uniforms and textbooks.
"My free education policy will go beyond by giving pupils free uniforms and textbooks," he added.
The promises form part of Mr. Mundubile's campaign commitments ahead of Zambia's 13 August General Election.
Source: Kalemba News (By Elizabeth Muchape)