The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has expressed confidence that the Lusaka Integrated Development Plan (2024-2034) and the Greater Lusaka Regional Plan (2025-2045) will guide sustainable urban growth in the Lusaka region. Permanent Secretary (Administration) Dr. Gabriel Pollen officiated at an orientation meeting on the plans held at Lusaka City Council, emphasizing their importance in shaping the city’s development.
The Lusaka Integrated Development Plan outlines strategies to enhance infrastructure, including road networks, water supply systems, sanitation, affordable housing, and secure land tenure. The plan aims to strengthen community participation, support key economic sectors such as tourism and manufacturing, and improve waste management. It focuses on planned settlements to manage the pressures of rapid urbanization while promoting efficient service delivery and local economic growth.
The Greater Lusaka Regional Plan considers the city’s role as a regional hub, addressing cross-border trade, transport corridors, and regional cooperation for sustainable development. Dr. Pollen highlighted that urbanization in Lusaka continues to accelerate, creating both opportunities and challenges for infrastructure, land use, public services, and environmental systems. He stressed that implementing the IDP is critical for managing growth and ensuring that development is sustainable and inclusive.
“Sustainable urbanization manages growth through improved infrastructure, service delivery, and the promotion of industrialization and commerce, creating jobs and boosting local economies,” Dr. Pollen stated. He added that the goal is to transform Lusaka into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable city that benefits all residents and contributes to national development.
Dr. Pollen tasked Lusaka City Council with effectively using the IDP as a planning tool, integrating sector strategies to achieve a unified vision for Greater Lusaka. He emphasized that IDPs are essential for coordinating development activities across sectors and provide a long-term framework for spatial planning and city growth.
Japan International Cooperation Agency Senior Representative in Zambia, Mr. Keita Izumi, commended the Zambian Government for its consistent support during the formulation of both the Lusaka IDP and the Greater Lusaka Regional Plan, noting that the collaboration strengthens the city’s path toward sustainable urban development.