Government Launches K230m Rural Roads Project in Rufunsa and Luangwa

Government has begun constructing feeder roads worth over K230 million across Rufunsa and Luangwa Districts, with completion expected by December 2026.

Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Permanent Secretary Professor Albert Malama said the works form part of the World Bank-supported Improved Rural Connectivity Project (IRCP), valued at around $200 million and rolled out across all ten provinces of Zambia.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony at the Manenekela turn-off, Prof Malama described the project as a milestone in efforts to boost connectivity, drive economic growth and improve living standards. He added that a bridge over the Lunsemfwa River is planned under a separate funding arrangement, which would allow the Shikabeta road to link Rufunsa to Mkushi District and the Great North Road.

Road Development Agency Board Chairman Engineer Eugene Haazele said the scheme would also deliver community infrastructure to support local needs. Rufunsa District will receive five boreholes, five flushable toilets, two small markets and five bus station shelters, while Luangwa District will benefit from seven boreholes, four flushable toilets, two markets, storage shades and four bus shelters.

Haazele urged contractor Sinohydro Bureau 5 Company Limited, working in joint venture with Sinohydro Corporation Limited, to complete the works on time.

In total, 119.2 kilometres of feeder roads will be built at a cost of K230,331,035.73, connecting communities across both districts.