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Luapula Province Minister, Nason Musonda, has dismissed reports suggesting that major infrastructure projects in the province had been abandoned, insisting that all flagship road and airport developments were progressing according to plan.
Musonda said the government officially commenced works on key projects in October 2025, including the Musaila–Lubwe–Kasaba Road, the Kashikishi–Chienge Road, and the provincial airport. He stressed that none of these projects had stalled.
Speaking during a media briefing in Mansa, Musonda revealed that the Musaila–Lubwe–Kasaba Road, valued at approximately K937 million and covering about 80 kilometres of main road plus 5 kilometres of township roads in Lubwe, had recorded substantial preparatory progress.
He said the contractor had completed about 98 percent of site camp establishment in Chifunabuli, while 40 percent of the construction equipment was already on site, with full mobilisation expected by the end of February.
“Full-scale construction works are scheduled to commence towards the end of March or early April, once the rainy season subsides, noting that meaningful road works cannot be undertaken during heavy rains,” Musonda said.
Regarding the Kashikishi–Chienge Road, also referred to as the Nchelenge–Chienge Road, Musonda said the contractor was currently establishing camps and mobilising equipment on site.
“The project, valued at over K1.9 billion and spanning approximately 95 kilometres, is expected to significantly enhance trade, fishing, agriculture and cross-border commerce with the Democratic Republic of Congo once completed,” he said.
He confirmed steady progress on the provincial airport project and announced that advanced procurement processes were underway for the long-awaited Pedicle Road, which he described as a vital economic artery for Luapula Province.
“Funds have already been allocated in the 2026 National Budget to commence construction works,” the Provincial Minister stated.
He noted that Luapula Province received 32 percent of the national infrastructure allocation in the 2025 budget — a clear indication of government’s commitment to inclusive development regardless of past voting patterns.
“There is no single project that has been abandoned,” Musonda said, assuring the public that all ongoing road, bridge, and airport projects would deliver lasting economic benefits to both the province and the nation.
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