Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
President Edgar Lungu has encouraged security personnel in the country to continue adhering to professionalism in the execution of duty.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces said this during the ground breaking ceremony for the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Twin Palm Public – Private Partnership project on Supporting Social Amenities and Commercial facilities.
President Lungu says as the August 11th elections approach, there will be temptations for officers to engage in active politics.
He says with the noble role of protecting and defending the country, it is in the best interest of the nation that men and women in uniform remain non partisan.
And President Lungu has said that government cannot afford to ignore the participation of the private sector in the economy and more so, complementing government’s efforts in delivering of public infrastructure.
He says for the nation to achieve desired results in the infrastructure development programme, there is need to collaborate with the private sector as an alternative to finance development.
Speaking earlier, ZAF Commander Lieutenant General Eric Chimese says the Air Force is closely monitoring unfolding events in the country where some individuals have resolved to engage in negative vices such as violence as the Election Day draws nearer.
General Chimese adds that the Air Force will firmly monitor the air space during the election period to ensure that individuals wanting to use the air space follow the laid down procedures.
And representing contractors engaged for the project, Eric Cheng says research shows that Zambia has a housing deficit of about 1.3 million housing units which is projected to reach 3 million in 2025.
He says the project will therefore help mitigate this deficit.
The ZAF Twin Palm PPP Project will comprise of a Hotel, modern shopping complex, conference & convention center, gas station, Air Force College, Air Force Sports complex, Fire fighting station and offices to let.