The government, through the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development, has signed a $326 million concession agreement with Barotse Highway Limited to upgrade the 317-kilometer Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road to an international bituminous standard.
The project, to be delivered through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) financing model, represents a significant investment in Zambia’s road infrastructure. The concession period spans 25 years, with two years allocated for construction and 23 years for operation and maintenance.
Key Project Features
The Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road upgrade includes several critical components:
Urban Roads: Upgrading 10 kilometers of roads in Kasempa and Kaoma towns to bituminous standard.
Bridge Construction: Building two new bridges at the Lalafuta and Luena rivers along the corridor.
These upgrades are expected to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity in the region, aligning with Zambia’s broader development goals.
The official signing ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including:Hon. Charles Milupi, MP, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development,Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, Minister of Finance and National Planning Hon. Douglas Syakalima, MP, Minister of Education Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, MP, Minister of Labour and Social Security
Speaking at the event, Hon. Charles Milupi highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “This road is a critical artery for commerce and transport in Zambia. Upgrading it to international standards will boost trade, improve safety, and enhance the quality of life for communities along the corridor.”
The project is expected to create job opportunities during the construction and operation phases while significantly improving transportation efficiency and accessibility.
Transforming Zambia’s Infrastructure
This landmark agreement marks another milestone in the government’s commitment to upgrading Zambia’s infrastructure through innovative financing models. By leveraging partnerships with the private sector, the government aims to accelerate development while ensuring sustainability.
The upgraded Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road is set to become a vital link, fostering economic growth and regional integration. Construction is expected to commence soon, signaling the start of a transformative journey for Zambia’s road network.
international bituminous standard. Really ???
We certainly have new roads being done but I dont believe they are of International Stds
Does the minister signing this really know the technical details ?
is that you saying this???
But why are you negative even when you haven’t seen the road itself? Why are you questioning his technical details level? If you have specific concerns regarding the “bituminous standard,” share them. Engaging in a constructive dialogue about the technical details can lead to a more informed understanding of the project’s merits and potential challenges, after which, we can understand your criticism
what’s international standard in your vocabulary? how is it different from the roads you are claiming are “not of international standard”?
I hope there’s no conflict of interest with the company’s shareholders. Politicians often never learn!
Does anyone know what our National debt stands at now ?
Just curious with all these new roads ??
Try to read and understand and if you don’t ,please ask what does this mean? The project, to be delivered through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) financing mode.
As per Ministry of Finance & Planning reporting at end of SEPTEMBER 2024, here is the quote:
“Zambia’s total public sector debt stood at USD25,230.19 million by the end of the third quarter 2024. This amount includes USD15,333.05 million, Central Government external debt, USD1,385.29 million Government guaranteed SOE external debt, and USD8,511.85 million (ZMW225,294.60million) in Central Government domestic debt.
The stock of private sector external debt as at end quarter two 2024 was USD6,429.63 million ”
Otherwise, you can use the Access to Information (ATI) to get your specific answers from the government.
General Kanene I think you are confusing tuma million and ma billion. Zambia’s debt currently approx 27 BILLION United States Dollars (731.5 BILLION Kwacha). That is 1000 times higher than what you have said
I hope there will be no arrests over the contract of this road. It’s important that our people have good roads but everything must be above board. Personally I am tired of each time we get a new government, they spend five years arresting officials of past administration.
Always was always will be
If they broke the law, arrest and prosecute them. Politicians never learn. If the current ones do the same, they will face the same as their predecessors.
WHO ARE THE OTHER PARTY TO THE SIGNING, GOVERNMENT MINISTERS MENTIONED YES ?
BUT WHO ARE THE OTHER PARTY!!
How was the procurement process. Just asking kkkkk
Always suspicious and digging for what is wrong
WHAT COMPANY IS THIS, WHATS ITS TRUCK RECORD IN ROAD INFRUSTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT, WHO ARE THE CHIEF OFFICERS AND WHO OWNS BAROTSE CONSTRUCTION.
Is there ever going to be a time when we can hear something positive from you? It often seems like the focus is on condemnation and skepticism, with some sharing negative “tundongodongo” stories that lack context. When will there be an opportunity for you to express positivity and appreciation for anything? This persistent negativity reflects a broader pattern that may impact your outlook of your life.
Priority should be given to the chisamba – airport road. If this can be tarred then it will ease the congestion on lusaka kabwe road as all those going to eastern province, airport, lusaka east etc won’t have to go to Lusaka but merely branch off from chisamba.
Great thoughts. but who can sponsor such a road? can they get enough money to recoup their investment. Are there more vehicles to pay enough toll gates.