The Ministry of Defence has officially handed over 190 newly built and fully furnished housing units to the Zambia Army at Kenneth David Kaunda Barracks, commonly known as Mikango Barracks, in Chongwe District. The milestone represents another important investment by the government in improving the welfare and living conditions of military personnel across the country. By providing quality accommodation, the government aims to address long-standing housing challenges while creating a more supportive environment for officers and soldiers serving the nation. The project also reflects Zambia’s broader commitment to modernising military infrastructure and strengthening the operational readiness of its defence forces. The completion of the new housing units marks a significant achievement for both the Ministry of Defence and the Zambia Army.
The newly completed development consists of 190 residential units designed to accommodate personnel across different ranks within the Zambia Army. The housing allocation includes 10 high-cost houses, 62 medium-cost houses and 118 low-cost houses, ensuring that accommodation is available for a wide range of officers and non-commissioned officers. The project was constructed by Zhongmei Engineering Group after being contracted by the Ministry of Defence to undertake the development. Each housing unit has been completed and furnished, allowing beneficiaries to move in immediately. The availability of modern accommodation is expected to improve the quality of life for military families while reducing pressure caused by housing shortages.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu expressed satisfaction that the project had reached completion and was ready for occupation. He explained that the construction of the houses forms part of the Ministry’s long-term strategy to reduce the housing deficit affecting military personnel. Adequate housing has remained one of the key welfare priorities for members of the defence forces, and the completion of these units represents meaningful progress toward meeting that need. He noted that providing suitable accommodation helps improve working conditions for officers and soldiers who dedicate their lives to protecting the country. The government believes that better living conditions contribute directly to improved morale, stability and professional performance within the armed forces.
Mr. Haamaundu also revealed that the government’s investment in military housing extends beyond Mikango Barracks. He disclosed that more than 600 additional housing units are nearing completion at Buffalo Park Barracks in Lusaka’s Chalala area. Once completed, these houses will further reduce accommodation shortages for military personnel while supporting the continued expansion and modernisation of defence infrastructure. The Buffalo Park project demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that members of the armed forces have access to safe, comfortable and modern homes. These developments are expected to benefit both serving personnel and their families for many years to come.
In addition to providing housing, the Buffalo Park project includes major infrastructure improvements that will also benefit surrounding communities. Mr. Haamaundu explained that the water and sewerage lines currently being installed at Buffalo Park Barracks will serve not only the military facility but also residents of Chalala, Chilenje and neighbouring areas. This integrated approach highlights how defence infrastructure projects can contribute to broader community development beyond military installations. Improved access to water and sanitation services supports public health, urban growth and overall quality of life for local residents. The project therefore delivers value both to the defence sector and the wider population.
The Permanent Secretary further stated that the Ministry of Defence remains committed to improving the living standards of all men and women in uniform across the country’s defence services. He explained that the Ministry intends to provide modern housing for personnel serving in every branch under its administration. The objective is to ensure that soldiers, officers and other defence staff have access to quality accommodation that reflects the important role they play in safeguarding Zambia’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty. Comfortable housing helps reduce personal challenges that can affect productivity and allows personnel to focus fully on their professional responsibilities. Such investments also demonstrate the government’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by members of the defence forces.
Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele welcomed the completion of the housing project and expressed gratitude to the government for prioritising the welfare of military personnel. In remarks delivered on his behalf by Brigadier General Maybin Muyanga, the Army Commander said the development aligns with the Command’s vision of building a modern and professional military. He noted that improved infrastructure is an essential component of military transformation and contributes significantly to operational effectiveness. Decent housing provides a strong morale boost by giving soldiers and their families a secure and comfortable place to live. This support strengthens the commitment and dedication of personnel serving the nation.
The successful completion of the project was also praised by Zhongmei Engineering Group, the company responsible for constructing the housing units. Project Manager Ye Xinjin said the development was delivered on schedule because of the strong working relationship between the contractor, the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, which served as the consultant on the project. He acknowledged the cooperation received throughout the construction process and credited it for the timely completion of the work. Mr. Ye also pledged that Zhongmei Engineering Group would continue maintaining the houses even after their official handover to the Zambia Army. This commitment is expected to help preserve the quality and functionality of the new homes for years to come.
The handover of 190 furnished housing units at Kenneth David Kaunda Barracks represents a major milestone in Zambia’s efforts to improve military welfare and modernise defence infrastructure. By addressing housing shortages and investing in quality accommodation, the Ministry of Defence is creating better living conditions for officers, non-commissioned officers and their families. Ongoing projects such as the development at Buffalo Park Barracks further demonstrate the government’s long-term commitment to supporting those who serve the nation. Combined with improvements to essential infrastructure such as water and sewerage systems, these investments deliver lasting benefits for both military personnel and surrounding communities. As Zambia continues strengthening its defence sector, projects like this reinforce the importance of supporting the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting the country’s peace, security and sovereignty.