Japanese agency says Lusaka comprehensive regional development masterplan near completion

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) says it has made significant progress towards the completion of the Luska Comprehensive Regional Development masterplan.

Through the masterplan, JICA is supporting Zambia to develop a guide to the Citys’ urban development, according the organization’s Chief Representative, Tokuhashi Kazuhiko.

Giving an update on the development of the masterplan in Lusaka on Monday to Local Government and Rural Development Minister, Gary Nkombo, Kazuhiko said this would be done while embracing the surrounding districts to ensure sustainability.

Kazuhiko said the need for RDP for Lusaka City was considered essential due to the rapid increase in population as well as in the districts surrounding which include Chibombo, Chilanga, Chongwe and Kafue.

“The report showed a population growth rate of 6.4 percent in Chibombo and Chilanga districts, 6.9 percent in Chongwe and 5.1 percent in Kafue, while the population in Lusaka remained relatively static at 2.0 percent,” he highlighted.

Kazuhiko stated that JICA-Zambia Office had made significant progress in completing the RDP document aimed at addressing challenges slowing urban development of Lusaka City and its surrounding districts.

“The RDP masterplan will address challenges hindering urban development such as inadequate housing, transport and road infrastructure, solid waste management, industrial development, water and sanitation, and drainage,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kazuhiko requested government to submit to JICA all priority areas for consideration for implementation once the RDP masterplan commenced by 2025.

At the same meeting, Nkombo, thanked Japan for its unwavering support to enhance sustainable development and improvement of living conditions for Lusaka residents.

“Government is happy with the progress towards actualisation of the RDP masterplan and is looking forward to the implementation of the project,” he said.

The minister said government was also undertaking a rigorous exercise aimed at addressing the challenges posed by unplanned human settlements across the country.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.