KALABO STEEL PLANT ON CARDS

By Sandra Machima

ABOUT US$5 million has been set aside for the construction of a steel plant in Kalabo District of Western Province whose construction will start next month.

Kalabo Steel Chief Executive Officer Sitali Sitali said the funding would be disbursed in instalments, with US$500 000 already received for works to commence.

He said a team of experts and engineers was expected to jet into the country to assess the area, saying the project is expected to kick-start in September.

He said Kalabo Steel plant will specialise in iron sheets, iron bars and a component of car engines, a project he described as a milestone to the country.

“We have various partners from both international and local for the success of this project and a team of experts from France and South Korea are among those who will be in Zambia to check progress on this project. We want a project grade that meets not just our expectations, but also that of the international market,” Mr. Sitali said.

He appealed to the Zambian people to be supportive of projects that were aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of people.

He challenged Zambians to participate and give support to businesses that contributed to the industrialisation agenda saying a strong local manufacturing base was imperative to spur economic growth.

“We have a tentative market for both locals and neighbouring countries such as Angola. We are happy to see the people of Kalabo showing support for this milestone,” he said.

He commended the Government for its willingness to support developmental projects for the benefit of the local people.