MUFUMBWE – President Hakainde Hichilema has outlined Mufumbwe development plans covering mining, roads, health services, skills training and social protection.
Addressing residents in North-Western Province, President Hichilema said the Government remained committed to improving livelihoods and extending essential public services across the district.
Education and social protection
The President said the Free Education Policy had enabled more children to return to school by removing financial barriers facing families.
He also assured residents that the Cash for Work and Social Cash Transfer programmes would continue. Eligible and qualified residents would be considered for inclusion in the Social Cash Transfer programme, he said.
President Hichilema further announced that volunteer teachers and health workers serving in Mufumbwe would be recruited into the public service as part of efforts to strengthen service delivery and create employment.
The supplied statement did not specify how many workers would be recruited or when the process would begin.
Infrastructure and representation
The President said the creation of a second constituency in Mufumbwe would improve political representation and the delivery of public services.
He also announced plans to expand Mufumbwe Police Station, Zambia Correctional Service facilities and Mufumbwe District Hospital.
Kalengwa Road would be rehabilitated, while a full-time skills training centre would be constructed in the district, he said.
No project costs, procurement schedules or completion dates were provided during the engagement.
Mining and employment
President Hichilema said the Government intended to reopen Mufumbwe Mine to create jobs and business opportunities for local residents.
He also announced that mining licences would be issued to people in Mufumbwe to enable them to participate more directly in the district’s economic development.
The statement did not identify the proposed mine operator, the investment required for reopening or the licensing categories that would be available to residents.
Improved mobile-network coverage in underserved parts of the district was also included among the commitments.
Peace and unity
President Hichilema urged residents to reject political violence and continue promoting peace, national unity and coexistence.
The commitments now face an implementation test. Their impact will depend on funding, clearly defined delivery schedules and transparent reporting on progress.
