Zambia Deepens Aviation Ties with China as Mansa Airport Upgrade Progresses
The Zambian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Zambia into a regional aviation hub, as the upgrade of Mansa Airport advances under a strategic partnership with China Jiangsu International.
Minister of Transport and Logistics, Hon. Museba Frank Tayali, MP, announced the development during a high-level meeting with Mr. Som Qinbo, Chairman of China Jiangsu International.
Hon. Tayali welcomed the delegation and expressed Zambia’s appreciation for the long-standing and fruitful cooperation with the People’s Republic of China.
He referenced the historic partnership between the two nations, dating back to 1964, and highlighted landmark projects such as the TAZARA Railway, built through collaboration between Chairman Mao Zedong and Zambia’s founding President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.
“Africa’s growth hinges on resilient, modern infrastructure,” Hon. Tayali said. “As Zambia is strategically positioned at the heart of the continent, we are determined to become a key aviation hub through investments like the Mansa Airport upgrade.”
The Mansa Airport project, which is being executed under a Design and Build model, carries an estimated cost of K740 million and a 17-month project timeline. Nine months into the project, progress stands at 7%, with both the mobilisation and design review phases completed.
The Minister praised China Jiangsu for initiating work on the project despite funding delays, demonstrating commitment and a strong partnership ethos. He assured that the Ministry of Finance is working to expedite the release of funds to meet contractual obligations.
Hon. Tayali also acknowledged the pending Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval, noting that the Ministry is in close coordination with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) to secure approval by April 30, 2025.
“We are committed to enhancing air connectivity across provincial centers and improving Zambia’s aviation infrastructure to drive economic growth and regional integration,” Hon. Tayali concluded.
