Yesterday, Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Hon. Eng. Charles L. Milupi, MP, officially launched the upgrading of approximately 80km of the Katunda-Lukulu-Watopa-Mumbezhi Road to bituminous standard in Mangango District, Western Province.
The contract for Lot 1 of the project has been signed at a total value of 1,430,339,436.84 ZMW. The upgrade aims to improve transportation efficiency, allowing farmers to move produce more quickly, access agricultural inputs on time, and expand commercial farming activities. The road is also expected to enhance mining and other economic activities in the region.
Minister Milupi directed the contractor to prioritize employment for local residents, especially young men and women from Kaoma, Mangango, and Lukulu. The project will also provide opportunities for small-scale local contractors through subcontracted portions of the work.
The minister highlighted that infrastructure development remains a key government priority to drive national economic growth. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing roads and bridges across Zambia to ensure a prosperous and united nation.
Other ongoing and completed road projects in Western Province include:
- Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma Road: Construction and rehabilitation under a public-private partnership model.
- Lusaka-Mongu Road: Rehabilitation from Tateyoyo Gate to Katunda/Lukulu Junction.
- Kafue Hook Bridge: Rehabilitation works completed.
- Luanginga and Silanda Bridges: Construction completed.
- Mongu-Limulunga Road: Rehabilitation and dual road construction completed.
- Muoyo Road: Upgraded to bituminous standards.
- Namushakende-Nalikwanda Road: Rehabilitation through the Improved Rural Connectivity Project.
The launch of the Katunda-Lukulu-Watopa-Mumbezhi Road upgrade marks a major step in the government’s effort to strengthen regional connectivity, boost agriculture, and create employment opportunities for local communities.