The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has dismissed claims circulating on social media that some Kanyama residents will be displaced to pave way for drainage works under the Kanyama Upgrading project.
Ministry Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Nicholas Phiri, has clarified that no individuals will be forcibly displaced from their homes as part of the project, which includes the construction of a 4.4 km Lady Diana drainage stretch.
During a tour of the 44 affected properties, Mr. Phiri said the process has been voluntary, with most of the impacted structures being fences and toilets.
He says for those requiring relocation, government has committed to a fair process of engagement, compensation, and resettlement to alternative land in Kanakantapa.
“A budget of 1.8 million Kwacha has been set aside to compensate the affected property owners,” said Mr. Phiri.
And Kanyama Ward 13 Councillor, Leonard Cheelo, expressed his support for the initiative, adding that the project will drive local development while ensuring affected residents are compensated.
The Kanyama Upgrading settlement process is a government project spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
The project objective is aimed at alleviating the historical reoccurrence of cholera, improve the living conditions of people including the improvement of water and sanitation , solid waste management services , roads and drainages among other things.
This is contained in a statement issued to RCV News by Lusaka City Council Assistant Public Relations Manager, Nyambe Bulumba.
Angel Kasabo
