Ensure locals are empowered, Lungu orders RDA

PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has directed the Road Development Agency (RDA) to ensure that all contractors adhere to the principle of locals first when employing in any government project.

And President Lungu said he will not tolerate selective development where certain areas are ignored.

The President said this yesterday at Fiwila Mission in Mkushi, when he launched the improved rural connectivity project which is earmarked to improve the selected rural road network countrywide.

The launched project which is funded by the Zambian government and World Bank will benefit over 460, 000 people in the targeted rural areas across the country.

Mr Lungu who thanked the World Bank for technical and financial support said it clearly demonstrated the confidence that the bank had in his government and its economy.

President Lungu said the local people need to be the direct beneficiaries of the development taking place in their communities.

And speaking earlier Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development Ronald Chitotela said the project which is aimed at improving rural connectivity would be implemented country-wide

Meanwhile, World Bank country director for Zambia Ina Ruthenberg said the project was significant for Zambia because it would improve connectivity in rural areas where poverty levels are particularly high.

And when delivering a vote of thanks, hosting Chief Shaibila thanked President Lungu for the project saying it would be first time since independence that road networks would be improved in his chiefdom and the surrounding areas.