Government Funds the Construction of Bus Shelters and Markets in Rural Areas

K23,000,000.00 has been distributed across seven districts in Zambia – Mongu, Mufumbwe, Chongwe, Choma, Ndola, Serenje, and Chasefu – to be used for local infrastructure projects. The disbursement was made by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and was announced by Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamundu.

This funding forms part of the allocation for this year’s National Budget for Rural Infrastructure Development. The development projects that will be financed by this budget will include the construction of markets, bus stations, and the rehabilitation of critical crossing-points.

Haamundu told the recipient authorities, “As you have received this money, ensure that you commence on the works as soon as possible to improve the livelihoods of people”.

As part of the scheme, the Ministry has directed the involved local authorities to ensure the contractors that are engaged on the development projects under the Constituency Development Fun (CDF) recruit their workforce from eligible young people who have undergone skills training from the CDF. Haamundu also requested that authorities should be proactive in ensuring contractors operate to the highest construction standards, and submit regular progress reports.

Among the allocations of funds, K4,00,000.00 has been sent to Mongu Municipal Council for the construction of Kasima Bulk Market, while Chongwe Municipal Council has received K5,000,000.00 to build a market shelter and ablution block. The same amount was sent to Mufumbwe Town Council for the building of a Bus Transit Station and other infrastructure works.

Photo: Lusaka Times