Northwestern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi has inspected the construction works on the temporal Kyawama market which will serve as the primary trading centre for Kyawama traders during the construction of the main Kyawama new market.
Mr Mulumbi expressed satisfaction with the quality of works delivered.
Speaking in an interview with the media in Solwezi, Mr Mulumbi described the market as being in good condition and ready for use.
He noted that the ablution facilities at the site are spacious and clean and they meet the required standards for sanitation.
He further said the trading area is adequate and provides enough space for marketeers to conduct their businesses in an orderly manner.
Mr Mulumbi stated that government remains committed to empowering traders by providing a proper trading environment and the new temporal market is a direct response to that commitment.
 He said such infrastructure restores dignity to traders, promotes hygiene, and creates a better environment for them to improve their livelihoods.
“It also ensures that traders are not left without a designated place to operate while waiting for the construction of the main market,” he said.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary emphasised that Solwezi Municipal Council will ensure that all traders are accommodated within the available space at the temporal market.
 He acknowledged that the facility is a temporary measure but assured traders that it will serve them adequately.
“It is a temporary space, but we believe that once the main market is complete, everyone will be comfortable and well accommodated.” He said.
Solwezi Municipal Council Mayor Remy Kalepa said the temporal market has been constructed specifically to prevent disruption of business activities, while government undertakes the construction of the main Kyawama market.
Mr Kalepa confirmed that construction is now completed, and the temporal market is expected to commence operations within two weeks.
“Final preparations are underway to ensure a smooth transition of traders to the new site,” He said.
Mr Kalepa also addressed the concerns of marketeers regarding the temporal market stating that the main Kyawama market will be a modern trading facility which will comprise of 60 standard shops, 1,200 modern stands for marketeers, a police post to enhance security, council offices for administration and a large, paved car park to improve access for customers and suppliers.
The Mayor further clarified that the temporal market and the main market are part of the same project with a total cost of K50 million.
He said the main Kyawama market is expected to be completed by December this year.
