Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Works, Supply, Communication and Transport Minister, Yamfwa Mukanga has observed that road maintenance is one of the greatest challenges Zambia’s road sector faces.
Mr Mukanga says it is for this reason that initiatives to protect the road infrastructure are developed.
Speaking during the launch of the 2015 – 2024 roads Maintenance Strategy an initiative of the Road Development Agency in Lusaka today, Mr. Mukanga says there is need to put road maintenance on the top of the developmental agenda.
Mr. Mukanga notes that concentration has been on major roads leaving the newly built roads unattended to.
He says the strategy will ensure that the road network is protected and maintained.
Mr. Mukanga states that the Road Development Agency as an implementing agency must ensure that they carry on regular inspections on the roads across the country in a bid to ensure that the roads are safeguarded.
He adds that he hopes the program will be carried on successfully by RDA and has urged the agency to ensure that resources are prudently used.
Speaking at the same event, RDA Board Chairman Willie Nsanda says government has over the past three years embarked on road infrastructure development to foster economic development in the country.
Mr. Nsanda says following the building of new roads, RDA in consultation with relevant stakeholders has decided to come up with a strategy of maintaining the roads and thus the launch of the 2015 – 2024 Maintenance Strategy.
Report by Albert Mpezeni