By Ruth Chayinda
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says the government’s decision to cancel the previous contract for the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway has saved the country about US$1.2 billion.
President HICHILEMA has also announced plans to build a market and a clinic at John Chinena to provide traders with a better operating environment and improve access to healthcare.
Speaking at John Chinena after touring sections of the Lusaka-Ndola Road project, President HICHILEMA said the previous contract, valued at US$1.8 billion, was too costly for the 327-kilometre road.
He said the previous administration had already spent US$33 million without constructing a single kilometre of the road.
President HICHILEMA said the government cancelled the contract and awarded a new one worth US$650 million, saying the decision ensured better value for public money.
He said progress on the project reflects the government’s drive to deliver quality infrastructure while making prudent use of national resources.
The President also disclosed that he has directed the contractor to construct lay-bys along the route to allow traders to conduct business more safely.
President HICHILEMA urged members of the community not to vote for the PF, saying the party was rejected by Zambians in the 2021 General Election and should not return under different political formations.
Meanwhile, President HICHILEMA called on Zambians to continue supporting the UPND, saying the party remains committed to peace, freedom and national development.
The President also cited the government’s achievements in the education sector, saying the Free Education Policy has enabled more children to return to school.
