There is no consultancy on the Lusaka – Ndola dual carriageway-Mundubile

By BARNABAS ZULU

MPOROKOSO Member of Parliament Brian Mundubile, has raised concerns over the ongoing construction of the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriageway, alleging that there is no consultant overseeing the project, and that the original design has been altered.
Speaking at a recent press briefing, Mr. Mundubile demanded an explanation from the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development, Charles Milupi, regarding the absence of a consultant on the project.
“There is no consultant to supervise the works on the dual carriageway,” Mr. Mundubile said. “Comrade Milupi, are you not aware of this? Why has the ministry failed to appoint one? The contractors are working without proper supervision, and that raises serious concerns about the quality and safety of the road.”
Mr. Mundubile also questioned the integrity of the construction, stressing that under Zambian laws and policies, it is illegal for contractors to carry out major works such as the dual carriageway without a consultant.
“We know very well that under laws and policies, you cannot have a contractor carrying out major works like the dual carriageway without a consultant.
We are asking questions, Comrade Milupi: Who is certifying the works on the dual carriageway? Who is certifying the quality of the materials being used?” he asked.
The MP also expressed his doubts about the capacity of the two contractors involved in the project. “We need someone to certify the material, and indeed the rocks that are being used.
Who is ensuring that the contractors are following the proposed design? The price of that road is not related to the design, and the design decides what materials and quantities should be used,” he added.
Mr. Mundubile also took the opportunity to address recent remarks made by Minister Milupi, criticising him for allegedly insulting priests. “Comrade Milupi is the only known member of ADD, but he is also Minister of Infrastructure. Sometimes, some of the positions that he takes are of grave concern. He is my big brother, but sometimes he needs to tone down. He should stop attacking the priests,” he said.
The MP ended his remarks with a call for the minister to focus on resolving the issues with the dual carriageway project rather than engaging in unnecessary disputes.
“Comrade Milupi, instead of insulting the priests, go and find out why the contractors are working without a consultant. We will be following up on this matter,” he said. “But leave the men of God alone.”