GOVT RELEASES FUNDS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT OF ZAMBEZI SOURCE NATIONAL MONUMENT IN IKELENGE DISTRICT
Written by Millennium on August 19, 2019
IKELENGE, – Government has released K1.8 million under the Tourism Development Fund for infrastructure development at the Zambezi Source national monument in Ikelenge district, Northwestern Province.
ZANIS reports that Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Arts, Howard Sikwela, disclosed in an interview the National Heritage and Conservation Commission (NHCC) will spearhead the project aimed at giving a facelift to the source of the Zambezi River.
A total of K1, 860,000 had been released to NHCC for preliminary works to make the national monument more attractive.
“We are not just talking, we are actually taking practical steps to fund the Commission so that they can start working on the site,” he said.
The scope of works include, among other things, expansion of the gallery and construction of campsites to provide lodging facilities for visitors wishing to spend sometime in the area.
Dr. Sikwela however said his Ministry will ensure that the development to be implemented in the area is carried out carefully.
“Apart from making it a tourist attraction, we must bear in mind that this is the source of the Zambezi River, and that this is the river which crosses all over the country, so we need to protect the eco-system so that even in the face of climate change the source is not badly affected,” he said.
Dr. Sikwela expressed optimism that the project will boost tourist arrivals in Ikelenge and create jobs for local communities.
He said through the project Government hopes to encourage private sector investment in the area.
Meanwhile Northwestern Province Minister, Nathaniel Mubukwanu, has hailed the project stating that the move to give the source of the Zambezi River a facelift will reposition the national monument and give it the importance it deserves. ‘
“We are mindful that the source of the Zambezi is rarely talked about in tourism circles despite its importance, probably this is because the area lacks infrastructure,” he observed.
Mr. Mubukwanu however noted that there would be need to ensure that the development to be carried out is properly controlled to avoid disturbing the biodiversity of the source of Africa’s fourth longest water channel.
Northwestern province is hosting its first ever trade and investment exposition under the theme “Unveiling The Hidden Treasures.” from 18 to 24 August 2019.
The Provincial Administration is showcasing investment opportunities in Mining, Tourism, Agriculture and infrastructure development. – ZANISIDENTIFYING RISK
