KK Airport new terminal building construction to begin in two weeks

Government has disclosed that the Exim Bank of China is within two weeks expected to release an initial payment of US$108 million to the contractor for the construction of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

Transport, Works, Supply and Communications Minister Yamfwa Mukanga has told journalists during a media briefing in Lusaka this morning that the initial payment will allow for the construction works to commence within two weeks.

Mr. Mukanga says,the US$360 million project, is expected to be completed within fifty four(54) months.

Mr. Mukanga explains that the first initial payment was supposed to be Made last month and that Exim Bank management has assured government that the money has been released and will be paid to the contractor through the Bank of China.

He says the contractor China Jiangsu is also expected to avail the program of works to his ministry so that government will be able to monitor the progress of the works.

Mr Mukanga states that the contract for the construction of the new KK International Airport was signed in June last year and later revised in September and that government is hopeful that within 54 months results will be seen.

He has attributed the delay in the commencement of the works to the design works for the VIP lounge, terminal building, hotel,fuel farm and shopping complex.

And the Minister has indicated that the current terminal building at KK international airport will be rehabilitated and used for domestic flights once the new terminal building has been completed.