— Vibrant motor industry cardinal for economic development – Col. Kaunda

Government says a vibrant motor industry is cardinal in fostering social and economic development in the country.

Transport, Works, Supply and Communication Deputy Minister Panji Kaunda says it was for this reason that government will continue to support the private sector in the motor industry sector.

Col. Kaunda said government would do so especially in the supply of brand new commercial motor vehicles saying this will go a long way in delivering the much needed development to the people.

He added that government  was committed to ensuring that the supply of brand new vehicles in the country is enhanced in order to boost the effective and efficient transportation of people , goods and services.

ZANIS reports that the Transport and Communications Deputy Minister was speaking during the Yet Motors Limited Commercial Cocktail in Lusaka last night.

He stressed that it is high time that Zambians were accorded an opportunity to buy new vehicles as opposed to the current trend where the few vehicles found on the market failed to meet the required standards.

Col. Kaunda said Government’s vision is to have a country where people can buy new vehicles as this also plays a critical role in enhancing safety on the roads.

He appealed to players in the motor industry to provide incentives that will help people to afford to purchase brand new vehicles by providing possibility and affordability in payment terms.

Col. Kaunda further stated that the robust infrastructure development of roads, schools, and health facilities that government has embarked has provided an opportunity for the private sector to grow by acquiring contracts to execute these projects.

He said government is not only constructing roads but is also making sure that road signs and furniture are also included in order to enhance road safety.

Col. Kaunda said the supply of brand new commercial and industrial vehicles in the motor industry is of great interest to his ministry because the reported failure by contractors to execute contracts has mainly been because of lack of machinery and equipment which includes motor vehicles.

He stated that the enhanced supply of vehicles in the industry will afford Zambian contractors access to have equipment that are suitable to the industry.