Local Government and Rural Development Minister, Gift Sialubalo, has officially commissioned the newly constructed Manyama Bus Station in Kalumbila District, built at a cost of K6.8 million.
Mr Sialubalo described the project as a clear demonstration of government’s commitment under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema to improving infrastructure, enhancing public service delivery and promoting decentralisation.
He said the construction of the bus station reflects government’s determination to strengthen local economic growth and ensure prudent utilisation of public resources through projects that directly respond to the needs of citizens.
The Minister noted that the facility was constructed by Kalumbila Town Council using the Local Government Equalisation Fund and locally generated revenue under capital projects implemented through a practical and cost-conscious approach.
He explained that part of the works were labour-based, while the Council procured key materials and undertook essential works such as fencing, gravelling and compacting.
Mr Sialubalo said the approach not only reduced construction costs but also promoted community participation and created employment opportunities for the people of Manyama and surrounding areas.
He stated that the commissioning of the bus station marks the beginning of a more organised, safer and efficient public transport system for Kalumbila District.
“Manyama is strategically positioned to serve as a transport hub for the entire district, connecting communities, traders, workers, students, farmers, visitors and investors to various parts of Kalumbila and beyond,” he said.
Mr Sialubalo added that organised transport infrastructure plays a critical role in driving economic development, improving safety, enhancing transparency in revenue collection and increasing access to social and economic opportunities.
He said government has continued placing local authorities at the centre of development because councils are better positioned to understand and respond to local priorities.
The Minister noted that through decentralisation, councils are being empowered to plan, finance and implement projects that directly benefit communities.
He said the use of the Local Government Equalisation Fund and locally generated revenue on the Manyama Bus Station demonstrates that local resources, when properly managed, can produce visible and lasting development.
Mr Sialubalo said the facility will provide a designated operating space for buses and other public service vehicles, thereby reducing congestion and risks associated with informal loading points while creating a more convenient environment for passengers, traders and transport operators.
He urged bus and taxi operators using the facility to work closely with the Council and relevant authorities to ensure orderly operations, cleanliness, adherence to regulations and respect for passengers.
He further called on residents of Manyama, Wabituo Ward and the entire Kalumbila District to safeguard the infrastructure against vandalism, misuse and encroachment.
Meanwhile, Kalumbila Town Council Secretary, Liyungu Mungandi, said the facility will improve mobility and bring order to public transport operations in the district.
And Kalumbila Town Council Chairperson, Shadrick Munjunga, said the local authority intends to reinvest revenue generated from the bus station into expanding the facility and supporting other community infrastructure projects.
Speaking at the same event, District Commissioner Brenda Sankisa thanked government for the numerous development projects being implemented in the district, attributing the progress to the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Where in the country is ‘Kalumbila District’? This PF experiment to create ‘districts’ out of little villages should be abolished by the next government.