Strengthening Ties and Boosting Growth: Inauguration of Kasomeno-Kasenga Road and One Stop Border Post with DRC

Fellow citizens,

We are delighted to have joined His Excellency President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo to inaugurate the Kasomeno - Kasenga - Chalwe - Kabila- Mwenda Road, along with the One Stop Border Post Project, which includes the construction of the Luapula River Bridge.

Zambia and the DRC share robust bilateral relations, and this project exemplifies our commitment to strengthening the ties between our two nations and peoples.

In our pursuit of delivering infrastructure projects, Zambia is dedicated to leveraging Public Private Partnerships. This approach not only alleviates fiscal pressure but also encourages active participation from the private sector in our economic development.

This project's significance extends beyond regional integration; it will bolster connectivity, improve accessibility, reduce transport costs, and contribute to poverty alleviation by generating jobs and fostering wealth creation.

Land-linked Zambia's access to regional and international markets presents a vital opportunity for diversification and growth. The tripartite region boasts immense market potential and GDP growth, which our country aims to harness.

We call upon GED Africa to prioritize the utilization of local materials and the employment of local people, especially our youth and women.

We have since arrived back in Lusaka and thank you for your prayers.

Hakainde Hichilema,

President of the Republic of Zambia.