Zambian president directs halt to plot allocations without infrastructure
President Hichilema tasks Housing Minister Christopher Kalila to address the 1.5 million housing deficit and enforce planning standards.
President Hakainde Hichilema has ordered Housing Minister Christopher Kalila to stop local councils from allocating plots without basic infrastructure, aiming to curb unplanned settlements. The President also directed Transport and Logistics Minister Charles Milupi to speed up the movement of goods along economic corridors to boost investment and economic growth.
Speaking at a swearing-in ceremony, President Hichilema stressed the need for strengthened urban planning, stating that all housing land must include essential services like roads to prevent public health issues. He urged Minister Kalila to tackle Zambia's estimated 1.5 million housing deficit while ensuring local authorities adhere to proper planning requirements.
The President also called for more multi-storey buildings to maximize land use and for affordable housing initiatives supported by effective mortgage systems. Minister Milupi was tasked with ensuring road and railway infrastructure supports faster and safer transportation of goods, as economic corridors are vital drivers of development.
Why it mattersPresident Hichilema's directive impacts citizens seeking housing and the development of urban areas by enforcing infrastructure standards for plot allocations.