No Room for Poor Workmanship: Milupi Warns Contractors During M9 Inspection
Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Charles Lubasi Milupi, has called for strict adherence to quality standards in road construction, stating that well-built roads are critical to economic growth and national development.
Speaking in Kaoma District of Western Province during an inspection of the Tateyoyo to Katunda Junction Road on the M9, the Minister emphasised that infrastructure projects must deliver lasting value to communities. The project covers approximately 87.3 kilometres and is considered a key route for improving connectivity in the region.
Mr Milupi said roads play a vital role in transforming communities and driving economic activity. He stressed that all projects must be completed at the right cost, to the prescribed quality, and within the agreed timelines.
He further noted that government cannot afford repeated expenditure on poorly executed works, urging contractors to prioritise durability and professionalism.
He added that public infrastructure investments are intended to serve the nation for generations and must therefore be executed to the highest standards.
The Minister also directed the Road Development Agency to strengthen supervision of projects and ensure strict compliance with quality requirements.
He warned that Interim Payment Certificates must only be approved after proper certification by consultants, adding that government will not tolerate substandard work.
The Tateyoyo to Katunda Junction Road project is being implemented by the Road Development Agency on behalf of the Government of Zambia. The contract was awarded to China Geo Engineering Corporation, with construction having commenced in June 2024 and scheduled for completion in December 2026.
