The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the country into a regional aviation hub, as progress continues on the upgrade of Mansa Airport through 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 gratitude for the long-standing cooperation between Zambia and the People’s Republic of China.
Referencing the historic partnership that began in 1964, he highlighted landmark initiatives such as the TAZARA Railway, constructed through collaboration between Chairman Mao Zedong and Zambia’s founding President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.
“Africa’s development depends on resilient and modern infrastructure,” said Hon. Tayali. “Zambia’s central geographic position makes it ideal for becoming a major aviation hub, and projects like the Mansa Airport upgrade are key to realizing that vision.”
The Mansa Airport upgrade, being implemented under a Design and Build model, has an estimated cost of K740 million and a 17-month completion timeline.
As of now, nine months into the project, progress stands at 7%, with both the mobilisation and design review phases completed.
The Minister commended China Jiangsu for proceeding with initial works despite delays in funding, a gesture he said reflects the strength of the bilateral partnership.
He assured stakeholders that the Ministry of Finance is working to expedite the release of funds to meet contractual commitments.
He also addressed the pending Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval, noting that his Ministry is working closely with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) to ensure approval is secured by April 30, 2025.
“We remain committed to expanding air connectivity across all provincial centers and enhancing Zambia’s aviation infrastructure to drive economic growth and regional integration,” concluded Hon. Tayali.
