NWP Emerges as Power Economic Hub

Strategic investments and infrastructure upgrades are reshaping trade and commerce in the region.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (28-08-2025) -Solwezi and North-Western Province are rapidly transforming into one of Zambia’s most important economic engines, driven by large-scale mining investments, government-led development programs, and public-private partnerships.

Chief Whip of the National Assembly and Solwezi Central Member of Parliament, Stafford Mulusa told journalists at a media briefing on Thursday morning at the UPND party headquarters in Lusaka that the region is experiencing unprecedented growth that is “changing the lives of ordinary people” and putting North-Western Province at the centre of national economic progress.

Mining Investments Drive Job Creation

Mr. Mulusa highlighted the $1.125 billion Kalumbila Mine expansion, a project expected to generate more than 9,000 jobs, extend the mine’s lifespan by 20 years, and produce 500,000 tonnes of copper annually. 

He also noted that Kalumbila hosts Africa’s largest nickel mine, a project he said is positioning Zambia as a key player in the global mining industry. 

“These investments are not just numbers—they represent livelihoods, long-term economic security, and opportunities for local communities,” he said.

Infrastructure Development Accelerates

The lawmaker said North-Western Province is witnessing significant upgrades to township and feeder roads, bridges, markets, chiefs’ palaces, and government facilities. 

He added that a major border post project, implemented through a public-private partnership, will ease congestion at Kasumbalesa and improve trade along critical routes, including Mutanda–Kasempa and Sesheke–Walvis Bay.

Education Sector Transformed

In education, the government’s free education policy has enabled more than two million children to return to school. 

The recruitment of over 30,000 teachers, construction of new classrooms and teachers’ houses, and installation of solar-powered facilities have strengthened learning environments across the province. 

Additionally, over 7,000 desks have been provided, supporting local artisans in the process. Plans are underway for Solwezi’s first university, with land donated by Chief Kapijimpanga, fulfilling a long-standing call for higher education access in the region.

Health Services Expanded

Healthcare is also being prioritized, with mini-hospitals and clinics under construction to improve access to medical services in Solwezi Central and surrounding areas. 

Mr. Mulusa said these developments aim to reduce the strain on existing facilities and provide essential care to previously underserved communities.

Youth and Women Empowerment

The Chief Whip emphasized government programs targeting youth and women. 

More than 2,000 young people have received skills training, while over 1,500 women and youths have benefited from loans and grants. Local contractors, including female-led firms, are actively participating in Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects, some managing contracts worth up to K4 million.

CDF allocations in Solwezi Central have increased sharply, rising from less than K3 million in 2016 to K36.1 million today. 

Mr. Mulusa said that over four years, more than K100 million has been invested in schools, clinics, roads, and community projects, with more than 70 percent of the funds already deployed.

A Model for National Growth

While highlighting these achievements, Mr. Mulusa also stressed the importance of accountability and oversight, warning that sustained progress depends on transparent management of resources. 

“Investment without accountability risks leaving the most vulnerable behind,” he said.

He concluded that North-Western Province is now driving Zambia’s growth, through mining, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social empowerment, positioning the region as a model for nationwide development.