Planning vital for development-Minister
Solwezi, April 4, 2013, ZANIS– North-western province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu has called for strengthening of the planning unit in the province.
Mr Mubukwanu said if no proper planning is put in place Solwezi risks turning into a slum.
He said if nothing is done quickly the slum will result into increased urban poverty hence the need to take quick remedial measures.
The minister said this in Solwezi today when he officially opened the Provincial Development Coordinating Committee (PDCC) meeting.
He said it is only through proper planning that the needs of the people can be identified and thereby device necessary measures to address the needs.
The minister has since directed Solwezi municipal council to quickly address the road damage at Kansanshi mine turnoff.
He told the Town Clerk to institute a committee comprising engineers from Road Development Agency, Zambia National Service and officials from First Quantum Minerals and Barrick Lumwana mines.
He said resources to work on the bad portion may not be a hindrance because the mines have indicated their willingness to assist.
Mr Mubukwanu has also urged the provincial administration to broaden the scope of membership of the PDCC to include Members of Parliament, Civil Society Organisations and even representation from the traditional leadership.
Meanwhile, Mr Mubukwanu has called for teamwork among civil servants in order to record success in developing the province.
He said it is only teamwork that can lead to success as opposed to working as segments.
He also advised the civil servants to be accountable with the use of public resources to ensure that it is spent on intended purposes that will benefit the people.
In passing a vote of thanks, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions Provincial Coordinator, Rodgers Kameya Manjomba assured the minister that public workers are commitedt to supporting him in developing the province by working to the expectations of the people.
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