President Hichilema Meets with Millennium Challenge Corporation CEO to Bolster US-Zambia Partnership
President Hakainde Hichilema today held a significant meeting with Ms. Alice P. Albright, Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), at State House.
The discussions underscored the growing US-Zambia bilateral partnership, marked by an increasing interest from the US business community eager to invest in Zambia.
President Hichilema expressed his gratitude for the MCC’s ongoing collaboration with the Zambian government in promoting socio-economic development, particularly highlighting the successful initiatives in water supply and sanitation under the first MCC Compact.
The President acknowledged the transformative impact of these projects on the lives of many Zambians.
In a pivotal announcement, President Hichilema thanked the MCC for selecting Zambia for the development of a second Compact, with an indicative budget of $450 million.
This new Compact aims to further enhance Zambia’s infrastructure and economic landscape, with a specific focus on the Chipata – Lundazi – Old Magodi Road.
This critical roadway traverses one of Zambia’s most productive agricultural regions in the Eastern Province, and its development is seen as essential for boosting agricultural productivity and facilitating market access for local farmers.
During the meeting, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of expediting the implementation of projects under the second Compact.
He expressed a strong desire for quicker turnaround times and efficient processes, ensuring that the benefits of these development projects reach the Zambian people promptly.
“We look forward to the speedy conclusion of all processes leading to the signing of the Compact,” President Hichilema stated. “This partnership with the MCC is crucial for our national development goals, and we are committed to working together to achieve tangible outcomes that will improve the livelihoods of our citizens.”
Ms. Albright reiterated the MCC’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s development agenda and assured that efforts will be made to streamline processes and enhance cooperation between the MCC and the Zambian government.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthen the US-Zambia partnership, fostering greater economic growth and development for the benefit of both nations.
