Zambian Delegation Engages with BADEA and DAR International to Boost Infrastructure and Healthcare Initiatives
A Zambian delegation, led by Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, Prof. Lackson Kasonka, recently concluded a series of productive meetings in Riyadh with key development partners, including the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and DAR International.
The discussions focused on advancing Zambia’s infrastructure and healthcare initiatives, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to expediting critical projects in the country.
The delegation, which included officials from the Ministry of Finance, Health, and the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Riyadh, engaged with BADEA to accelerate vital infrastructure projects such as the Kalabo-Sikongo Road Project and the rehabilitation of the Tapo-Kalabo Road.
Additionally, the parties discussed the BADEA-supported Cancer Centers initiative, agreeing on the need to fast-track the completion of the Ndola project and to begin the Livingstone project without delay.
A key focus of the talks was the Capacity Building Grant for Civil Servants, with both Zambia and BADEA recognizing the importance of this program. The two parties agreed to collaborate through BADEA’s Technical Assistance Unit to ensure the effective implementation of this initiative, which aims to enhance the skills and capacities of Zambia’s civil service.
In a separate meeting, the Zambian delegation engaged with DAR International, a leading engineering consultancy firm. DAR International is the principal consultant for the construction of the King Salman Hospital, an 800-bed healthcare facility in Riyadh.
The discussions centered on improving coordination between the Zambian government, DAR International, and local Zambian engineering consultancies, with the aim of ensuring the timely and successful completion of the hospital.
All stakeholders expressed a shared commitment to strengthening coordination mechanisms, involving the contractor, the Saudi Fund for Development, and other relevant parties. The goal is to commission the King Salman Hospital by October 2025, a milestone that will contribute to enhancing Zambia’s healthcare infrastructure.
This is in a statement issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Riyadh.
