By Buffalo reporter
Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Norman Chipakupaku says the government is committed to equipping the Zambia Army with the necessary engineering requisites to complement government efforts in the infrastructure development of the country.
Speaking after he toured the Arakan Barracks water reticulation system, Mr Chipakupaku assured the Army that his ministry will ensure funds are released so that the projects under the military wing are completed as soon as possible.
Mr Chipakupaku said he is impressed with the work done so far by the Army Engineering Brigade.
He said supporting the defence force to practice its full engineering skills will significantly reduce government expenditure on infrastructure development.
Mr Chipakupaku added that the government’s priorities are to ensure that there is proper accommodation and sanitation, and security fencing in all the Zambia Army cantonments.
The Permanent Secretary warned of misappropriation of funds once the projects are funded and advised the work should be done properly and that there should be no compromise on the prices of materials.
“Ensure there is no compromise on the quality of work, and the projects should be done in the stipulated time frame,” he said.
And 4 Engineer Brigade Commander Brigadier General, Frenly Buumba Zyeele assured the Permanent Secretary that the funds will be utilised appropriately.
Brig Gen Zyeele said the Zambia Army is capable of using its engineering skills, provided funds are released.
“We the engineers were employed to do both civil and combat works in the nation.”
“The Road Development Agency (RDA) engaged us to construct and rehabilitate seven bridges in North-Western, Western, and Southern provinces and the materials are on site,” Brig Gen Zyeele said.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary paid a courtesy call on Zambia Army Commander Sitali Dennis Alibuzwi before proceeding with the tour.
