State ponders giving back road contract to Sable

Government through the National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) is pondering giving back the entire contract of completing the 171 kilo meters Kasama-Mporokoso Road to Sable Construction Company.

This came to light yesterday when Board members from the National Road Fund Agency (NFRA) led by Transport, Works, Supply and Communications permanent secretary Julius Shawa inspected progress on the Kasama-Mporokoso Road.

Last year, Government reduced the scope of work for Sable to 97 kilometers due to delays by the firm in carrying construction works on the road project.

But after inspecting current works, NRFA board chairperson for Technical and Finance Rhoydie Chisanga said it is possible for government to consider reviewing Sable’s contract on the Kasama-Mporokoso Road based on the contractor’s improved performance.

Mr. Chisanga said so far Sable has shown improved commitment to carry out quality works on the Kasama-Mporokoso Road.

He urged Road Development Agency (RDA) regional engineer George Manyele to look at the possibilities of re-engaging Sable to complete the total stretch of 171 kilometers of the Kasama-Mporokoso Road to avoid loss of time in construction works.

However, Mr. Manyele said the matter of reviewing Sable’s contract for the second time can only be handled at the head office in Lusaka.

And Transport, Works, Supply and Communications permanent secretary Julius Shawa advised Sable Construction Company to expedite works on the Kasama-Mporokoso Road.

Mr. Shawa said government is in hurry to make sure that major road projects under construction in the country were completed on time.

He observed that the link Zambia 8, 000 road project that government has embarked upon will accelerate national development.

Meanwhile, Sable Construction Company project manager Addisu Andessie said the 97 kilometers of the revised contract on the Kasama-Mporokoso will be completed ahead of schedule.

The construction of the Kasama-Mporokoso Road, which started in 2011, is supposed to be completed in September 2014.