Kalila pledges to work with stakeholders to address housing challenges
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Top StoriesThe Transition of leadership in the Housing and Infrastructure sector has taken center stage as the outgoing Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development formally hands over office to two Ministers now overseeing the separate portfolios of Housing and infrastructure and…
The Transition of leadership in the Housing and Infrastructure sector has taken center stage as the outgoing Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development formally hands over office to two Ministers now overseeing the separate portfolios of Housing and infrastructure and Urban Development.
The handover Ceremony marks an important moment ensuring continuity of government programmes, policy implementation and service delivery under the two ministries.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the newly sworn in Minister of Housing Christopher, Kalila reaffirmed his commitment to building on the progress made while prioritising outgoing Minister’s programmes and reforms.
Dr Kalila said that he will be working collaboratively with all stakeholders to address the Housing needs of citizens.
Dr Kalila says he is looking forward to the Ministry’s staff support and cooperation as they strive to provide affordable, decent and sustainable housing for all in line with the Grow Zambia Agenda.
And the Minister of Infrastructure and Urban Development, Collins Nzovu, has pledged to strengthen monitoring of ongoing infrastructure projects to ensure timely completion and accountability in the use of public resources.
Eng Nzovu has identified inadequate funding, project delays, outstanding financial obligations and shortages of technical personnel as some of the major challenges affecting Infrastructure development.
He has commended progress made through Public- Private Partnership projects, saying government will continue strengthening the programme to support infrastructure development.
The Minister says Government will prioritise orderly urban development, upgrading informal settlements and improving access to basic services while promoting safe, resilient and sustainable public infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the outgoing Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Development, Charles Milupi, has called for collaboration among government ministries and stakeholders to accelerate infrastructure development and improve urban planning in the country.
He says the realignment of the Ministry presents an opportunity for a sharper focus on public infrastructure and Urban Development urging the incoming Ministers to build on the progress already made.
He has further emphasised the need for continuous maintenance of public infrastructure, stating that proper maintenance is more cost-effective than rehabilitation or complete replacement of Infrastructure.
The Minister has urged the new Minister of Housing to prioritize the completion of ongoing projects, finalise the Housing policy and strengthen estate management standards to improve housing delivery in the country.
He disclosed that construction of homes for the elderly people in Chinsali and Choma districts have reached 87 and 84 % completion respectfully.
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