Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Nicholas Phiri, has attributed the delayed delivery of the 156 ambulances procured through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to logistical challenges.
Government through the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) and Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development signed a contract worth K3,073,487 million, to purchase 156 ambulances for all constituencies using (CDF) in May, 2024.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. Phiri explained that the delays stem from difficulties in shipping the vehicles from their point of assembly to Zambia.
He revealed that, of the 156 ambulances, 52 have so far arrived in the country, while the remaining 104 are expected to arrive by August 2025.
“With all things being equal, the 104 ambulances will be in the country by August and if there are any further challenges, the nation will be kept informed,” said Mr. Phiri.
And when asked whether he still stands by his earlier statement that he would resign if all 156 ambulances are not delivered by May 2025, Mr. Phiri said he will not resign, adding that the current delays are due to circumstances beyond government’s.
RCV News.
