Minister prods NAPSA

By NATION REPORTER THE National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) must safeguard and grow its investment portfolio sufficiently so that the country’s social security scheme is steadfastly administered, Labour Minister Joyce Simukoko has advised.

Ms Simukoko noted that countries around the globe have utilized workers capital to develop the much needed economic infrastructure and also invested in many other sectors.

The Minister has thus urged NAPSA to ensure the country’s social security provision is always above board.

She said this in Kitwe when she toured the construction site of the Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL) Business Park, comprising a shopping mall, hotel, convention centre and office spaces at the former Freedom Park in Parklands.

Ms Simukoko said NAPSA’s primary objective was to provide long-term income security to its members who are employees, hence the imperative need for a sound investment portfolio

She was happy with the progress at the construction site.

Ms Simukoko said NAPSA has a custodial responsibility to safeguard and grow its investment by engaging in viable projects such as the ECL Business Park.

Meanwhile, NAPSA DirectorGeneral Yollard Kachinda has commended the contractors working at the ECL Business Park for the high quality work.

Mr Kachinda said the project stands to benefit workers in the country who contribute their pension to the authority.

Meanwhile, the major contractors for the hotel, Stefanutti Stocks Contracts Manager Willie Retief said the hotel which will be called Garden Court will add value to the hospitality in Industry in the country once completed.

Mr Retief said he was happy with the construction works and commended the Zambian workers for their dedication.