The United States Government has handed over modern infrastructure facilities valued at US$5.8 million to Zambia at the Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s peacekeeping and military training capacity.
The newly completed facilities include a 400-seat dining hall, a multi-purpose warehouse, outdoor classrooms, an indoor engagement skills range, and secure ammunition storage facilities.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Michael Coker said the investment reflects the strong partnership between the United States and Zambia and underscores a shared commitment to peace, security and professional military training.
Mr. Coker said the facilities will support the training of thousands of future peacekeepers and enhance the centre’s capacity to prepare military personnel for international peace support operations.
He noted that the new infrastructure will help maintain the Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading institutions for peacekeeping training.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu said the long-standing cooperation between Zambia and the United States continues to yield tangible benefits for the country’s defence sector.
Mr. Haamaundu stated that the investment strengthens Zambia’s ability to train and deploy highly skilled and professional troops to regional and international peacekeeping missions.
He added that the upgraded facilities will contribute to improving operational readiness, training standards and the overall effectiveness of Zambia’s participation in global peace support efforts.
And Commandant of the Centre, Telenkako Banda, welcomed the development, describing it as a significant milestone in the institution’s growth.
Brigadier General Banda said the new infrastructure will enhance the learning environment for trainees and support the centre’s ambition of becoming a recognised centre of excellence in peacekeeping and security training.
The Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre plays a key role in preparing military, police and civilian personnel for peace support operations under regional and international frameworks, including missions coordinated by the United Nations and the African Union.
The latest investment further strengthens defence cooperation between Zambia and the United States while enhancing the country’s contribution to international peace and security efforts.
