President Levy Mwanawasa says he will not be deterred in his development vision by people bent to criticise developmental programmes being implemented by his administration.
The president said the development of north western in particular, would remain
priority on the national development agenda due to the value derived from the area
in developing the overall national economy.
Mr. Mwanawasa said in line with the development agenda, government has focused
resource allocation towards the improvement of the road network, as a measure of
facilitating the smooth implementation of developmental projects, in north western
province.
The president was speaking in a speech read for him by Transport and Communications
Minister Sara Saifwanda at the Ukupupa traditional ceremony of the Lamba people.
Mr. Mwanawasa disclosed that government has released K43.8 billion for the
rehabilitation of the 120 kilometre stretch of the Solwezi/Kipushi Road an
additional K31 billion for the Solwezi/Chingola Road.
He further indicated that US$180,000 has been disbursed towards the rehabilitation
of the Solwezi Mwinilunga Raods.
The president further disclosed that government has released K30 million for the
drilling of boleholes at Senior Chief Kalilele and Lwamakanda and an additional K200
million for the construction of the Lamba High school in Solwezi district.
Speaking at the same occassion, Ukupupa Organising Committee Chairperson, Kilinima
appealed to president Mwanawasa to consider giving Mushindamo a district status due
to its rapid economical growth.
And in passing a vote of thanks, Chief Mukumbi of the Kaonde people called on
government to put to an end casualisation of labour at Kansanshi and other mining
firms in the province.
We appreciate your commitment. But take note that Zambia is not only North Western Province because, your only focus now is North Western Province. Why should the Gwembe, Sinazongwe and Siavonga continue to be hungry when water and fish are plenty ? Why should cashew nut trees in Mongu not used for emplyment creation ? What about Mansa batteries and Manganese ?, and what about coffee in Kasama and in general land lying idle in northern, Luapula, Eastern Provinces yet withouth commencial agriculture