Africa-Press – Zambia. CABINET has approved the transfer of the Kasumbalesa Border Post by the Zambia (I.P) Border Crossing Company (ZIPBCC) to the Government of the Republic of Zambia.
In a Press Statement made available to ZANIS today, Chief Government Spokesperson Chushi Kasanda said Cabinet approved that the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) should, from Friday, March 3, 2023, start managing the Vehicle Traffic Management System at Kasumbalesa Border Facility, including other supporting infrastructure.
Ms. Kasanda said the decision was made during the 4th Cabinet Meeting in the Year 2023, on Thursday at State House which was called by President Hakainde Hichilema to deliberate on developmental issues for the country.
Ms. Kasanda who is also Minister of Information and Media said the decision by Cabinet follows the expiry of the Concession Agreement between the Government and ZIPBCC on Friday March 3, 2023.
“Cabinet attaches a lot of importance to the operations of this boarder because Kasumbalesa has become a very busy crossing point where cross border business is concerned. Over time, business at Kasumbalesa border has greatly increased, particularly with increased volume of trade between Zambia and the DRC,” she said.
Ms. Kasanda stated that the transfer of the Kasumbalesa Border Post to Government will allow the Government to manage the operations of the border facility and maximize revenue collection for implementation of the many developmental Government programmes.
She stated that Cabinet feels special attention needs to be attached to ensure smooth operation of the Kasumbalesa border going forward. “The border has also become the main crossing point for goods and services from many countries in the Southern African region,” she stated.
The Government and ZIPBCC signed a Concession Agreement for Kasumbalesa Border Post on July 1, 2009, to Design, Build, Operate and Transfer. The operations of the border facility by ZIPBCC commenced in March, 2011.
Meanwhile, Ms. Kasanda disclosed that Cabinet also deliberated on the commemoration of the 2023 National Youth Week. She added that Cabinet appreciated the many activities that the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has lined up during the week which will culminate in the celebration of the Youth day which falls on March 12, 2023.
“Cabinet indicated that the planned activities for the commemoration of the 2023 National Youth week which included among others, the Exhibition by Youth Entrepreneurs and Innovations and The National Youth Indaba should be undertaken in order to promote youth participation in the development of the country,” she said.
The Chief Government Spokesperson noted that Cabinet urged all stakeholders to participate in the planned activities and show solidarity and encourage the youth to fully participate in the development of the country.
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