By Francis Chipalo
In their continued effort of contributing to the transformation of the country, the Zambia Chinese Association (ZCA) is set to change the road network around Lusaka’s Levy Mwanawasa Medical University (LMMU).
The association has commenced rehabilitation works of the China – Zambia Friendship Road following an approval by the local authority, the Lusaka City Council (LCC).
The 1.1 kilometer stretch starts from the residence of the Chinese medical team in Zambia to Levy Mwanawasa Hospital.
Expected new features on the road includes solar lights, a garden park, sitting benches as well as trees courtesy of the Chinese people.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the avenue, ZCA president Zhang Jian stated that Levy Mwanawasa is one of the hospitals where the Chinese medical team provides aid, saying the road is a crucial route for the team to travel between their residence and the hospital and thereby giving it special significance.
“On behalf of the Zambia Chinese Association, I solemnly pledge to work together with enthusiastic enterprises to ensure the successful completion of the renovation project for the China-Zambia Friendship Avenue,” Jian said.
Jian indicated that the association will basically transform the status of the road and the area at large.
“Additionally, we will adorn the sides of the road with greenery and flowers, install streetlights, and enhance road lighting to make this avenue a beautiful sight both day and night,” he declared.
Jian added that the project is a true reflection of the China-Zambia friendship.
The Zambia Chinese Association will also give LCC 2,500 trees per year for 20 years, which add up to 50,000 for a total value of $200,000, to beautify Lusaka.
Speaking at the same event, LMMU, vice chancellor, Prof. Elwyn Chomba said upgrading the road will improve accessibility for learners, patients and workforce who use it on a daily basis to class, work and accessing medical services at the institution.
And Lusaka mayor Chilando Chitangala expressed happiness at the development.
Mayor Chitangala stated that the donation of trees on the stretch and other modern features will enhance the environment amidst adverse effects of climate change.
Once completed, the road is definitely set to change the face on the institution and surrounding areas.
