Mpulungu is entering a new phase of development with two major projects under the Lake Tanganyika Development Project. The district is set to benefit from expanded access to clean water and the construction of the Ngwenya ultramodern market. Both initiatives aim to uplift living standards, support economic activity, and strengthen community resilience.
The clean water component includes the installation of seven solar backed water tanks in key locations. One tank is being installed at the Mpulungu Bus Station to support the new market under construction. Two 10,000 litre tanks are being placed at the Mpulungu Urban Health Centre and four 10,000 litre tanks at the Mpulungu District Hospital. These facilities will help address long standing water shortages and support essential public services.
During a tour of the sites, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent Secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba said the project is a timely intervention for communities that have faced water and sanitation challenges for many years. He noted that the water installations are being placed where the need is highest. He encouraged contractors to move quickly so residents can benefit without delay.
The water facilities form part of the wider Lake Tanganyika Development Project. The programme combines clean water access, education, quality healthcare, and environmental protection to support lake based communities.
Alongside the water initiative, the district is seeing rapid progress on the Ngwenya ultramodern market. The K26 million project has reached 40 percent completion and is expected to be handed over to the community by March next year.
The new market will accommodate more than 300 fish traders, improving trading conditions along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. It will feature a water reticulation system and a cold storage unit to help traders reduce post harvest losses. The facility will offer a safer and more organised environment for daily business.
During his inspection tour, Dr. Chibamba said the government is committed to ensuring that communities around the lake benefit from meaningful development. He highlighted the importance of modern infrastructure in improving livelihoods and supporting sustainable growth.
Project contractor Zhao Zhifeng from China Gandu Engineering Corporation Limited said construction is progressing well and projected that the market will reach 80 percent completion by December. He confirmed that the company has already employed 50 local workers as part of its support for job creation.
Mpulungu District Commissioner Gehard Sikazwe welcomed both projects and praised the government for prioritising the district. He said the water tanks will ease the persistent water shortages that have affected residents for years. He also said the new market will transform the local business landscape and bring relief to traders who have operated in harsh weather conditions.
He noted that the addition of cold storage will strengthen fish trading by reducing losses. Many traders have previously incurred significant waste due to fish spoiling before reaching the market.
The clean water expansion and the construction of the Ngwenya ultramodern market show the impact of coordinated development in Mpulungu. The projects signal a stronger future for the district through improved services, new economic opportunities, and better living conditions for residents.