The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) recently noted that negotiations for agreement for construction of a railway line in Zambia worth US $1bn railway line between the Government of Zambia and North West Railway (NWR) will be finalized by the end of the year.
According to the Director General for ZDA, Patrick Chisanga, negotiations for the construction of a railway line in Zambia were now on the advanced stages. He noted this during this during a media briefing.
Henry Sakala, the Director of Public Private Partnership for ZDA also noted that the agreement will soon be concluded. He noted that the project was complicated and some people had to be compensated while it took place hence certain issues needed to be addressed before work can fully begin.
Mr Sakala further noted that there were plans to break ground for the project in August but some things had to be put in place before this can happen. The Government of Zambia was eager to have the construction of the railway line started as soon as possible.
Chisanga noted that they were also in the process of reviewing the strategic plan with the last strategic plan having been for 2013 to 2015. This will be re framed and the direction of the project will be made in such a way that it matches the changing investment and business situation both locally and internationally.
The new strategic plan would help transform business so that Zambians can benefit totally.
Chisanga further noted that focus would be on increasing and expanding non- traditional exports through value addition and allowing diverse products in the markets.
