DRC ready to work with Zambia on toll gate project

DEMOCRATIC Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi says his government is committed to working with Zambia to actualise the Kasomeno-Mwenda toll road and Luapula bridge project.

Mr. Tshisekedi said the project which was being promoted by GED Africa and Duna Aszfalt of Hungary would offer economic benefits to both countries.

He has since directed his officials to work with their Zambian counterparts to ensure that the groundbreaking ceremony for the project takes place within the next three months.

Mr. Tshisekedi was speaking when Luapula Province Minister Nickson Chilangwa, Housing and Infrastructure Development Minister Vincent Mwale and Zambia’s Ambassador to that country Friday Nyambe paid a courtesy call on him.

Mr. Tshisekedi, who was flanked by his Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works, has also implored officials from both countries to make every decision that would culminate into the groundbreaking ceremony.

He said the project cannot have more delays owing to its economic importance to the two countries.

And speaking shortly after the meeting, Mr. Chilangwa said his delegation was sent by President Edgar Lungu to pursue the expeditious implementation of the project.

Mr. Chilangwa, who was also accompanied by Luapula Province Permanent Secretary Charles Mushota, described the meeting with President Tshisekedi as successful.

Mr. Chilangwa noted that the construction of Kasomeno-Mwenda toll road and Luapula Bridge will end the congestion woes at Kasumbalesa border post which will translate into economic and social benefits.

Meanwhile, Mr. Chilangwa has disclosed that during the meeting the Zambian delegation made a proposal for the establishment of the Luapula River Authority. – ZNBC.