Zambia plans orderly urban growth

Vice-President Mutale Nalumango stated that urban planning in Zambia must address community needs by enhancing access to basic services while avoiding unnecessary displacement of people and their livelihoods. She announced the government's commitment to fostering orderly human settlements, upgrading infrastructure, and expanding economic prospects as urban areas grow. Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Gift Sialubalo delivered the speech on her behalf at the National Urban Conference in Lusaka.

Mrs Nalumango emphasized that urban development should be inclusive and practical, ensuring planning leads to better living conditions for citizens. She noted that challenges like unplanned settlements, poor drainage, sanitation, housing congestion, and insecurity require coordinated planning and infrastructure investment. Land allocation and investment decisions should be guided by spatial planning and supported by essential infrastructure such as roads, water, schools, and health facilities.

The government is also promoting decentralisation to move decision-making closer to communities, with local authorities tasked to translate development priorities into actionable plans and projects. Integrated development plans are important in guiding local investments, and national institutions are urged to align their support with local authority priorities. Chief Chamuka called for stronger collaboration between traditional leaders, local authorities, and policymakers to manage urban expansion, especially in customary areas facing high land demand.

Why it mattersUrban planning decisions by the government and local authorities will affect where citizens live and access services.

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