Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road concession signed

By Ruth Chayinda

Over three hundred and twenty six  million dollars concession agreement has been signed for the construction of the 371 kilometers Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road of North Western Province.

The Government, Barotse Highway Limited -BHL-  and the Road Development Agency have signed the concession agreement for the construction of the  road project under the Public Private Partnership .

Chairperson of the Council of Ministers on Public Private Partnership SITUMBEKO MUSOKOTWANE said the PPP projects are being actualised due to the sound political leadership the country has.

He says since the UPND assumed office, the country has been able to see major developments being implemented under the Public Private Partnership model.

He said the Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma road is cardinal in not only creating employment but also enhancing economic activities and facilitating trade.

And Infrastructure Minister CHARLES MILUPI explained that three years will be spent in constructing the road while in the remaining 22 years, the concessionaire will operate and maintain the road.

Education Minister DOUGLAS SYAKALIMA said this when he delivered a speech on behalf of Mr Milupi.

Mr. MILUPI revealed that BHL will also construct 20 kilometers of township roads in Kaoma and Kasempa, two new bridges, two weigh bridges and three toll plazas along the Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma Road.

And Kasempa Member of Parliament BRENDA TAMBATAMBA said will enhance access to regional markets and improve the lives of the people.

And FQM , which is an investor and technical advisor in the road project, says it remains committed to supporting the Government to transform the country’s transportation sector which is key to enhancing mining productivity.

FQM Country Manager GODFREY BEENE said the road will also unlock the economic potential for both North Western and Western Provinces and the country at large.

Barotse Highway Limited Chief Executive Officer NUKS VAN RENSBURG said the road will enhance connectivity within the country and beyond.