GOVT COMMISSIONS NAKAMBALA ROAD WHICH HAS BEEN TARRED BY ZAMBIA SUGAR AT A COST OF K4.1 MILLION
MINISTER of Local Government and Rural Development, Gary Nkombo, has commissioned the 4.6 kilometers Nakambala road financed by Zambia Sugar at a cost of K41 million.
The stretch which has been upgraded from gravel to bituminous standard, services the Nakambala Estate.
In his speech, the Mazabuka Central Member of Parliament recognized Zambia Sugar for being among the top contributors to the country’s treasury through remission of taxes, hence effecting national development.
Mr Nkombo also singled out Zambia Sugar Country Director, Oswald Magwenzi, for his unique leadership traits since taking over the company’s mantle, describing his management as one that has transformed the Estates, Mazabuka and the nation in general.
He also commended the Contractor
for delivering the road project in under 18 months, which also comes with a sideway for cyclists.
And giving his speech earlier, Zambia Sugar Chief Executive Officer, Oswald Magwenzi, noted that the tarred road, the first of its kind in the area, has been delivered when the company is clocking 60 years of operations in the country.
He likened the road to the function of the artery in the human heart owing to the traffic it experiences, stating that the project was inspired by the company’s resolve to creating a safe environment for workers and the community.
Magwenzi, who received recognition as the Iconic Man of the year in 2023 for his exemplary contribution towards the improvement of health, safety, environment and well-being at the AfriSAFE Awards in Nigeria, hinted at more projects in the area.
He mentioned of Staff Housing, upgrading Infrastructure
improvement at the sugar plant, as well as more out-grower schemes to involve more people in the company’s supply chain.
And during the Safety moment at the beginning of the commissioning event, Zambia Sugar Support Services Director, Collins Phiri, recalled a sad moment in 2018, when a Security Constable at the Company, Arnold Kalunga, lost his life on the said road.
He explained that on his way to rescue an individual who wanted to commit suicide, he lost control of his bicycle and fatally fell in a drain on the side, further noting that the road had seen 150 accidents between 2022 and 2023 owing to its bad state.
The ceremony which was attended by several dignitaries, also saw a presentation on Road Safety by pupils from Nakambala Private School, and performances from artists, Kadas-Zambia and Mordecai.