THE Millennium Challenge Account Zambia (MCA Zambia) says it will compensate over 1,700 residents for structures and properties that will be razed and uprooted to pave way for the implementation of the Lusaka Water Supply, Sanitation and Drainage Project.
And outreach and communications director John Kunda has thanked Government for being responsive to investment by settling a huge debt that it owed the Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC).
He was speaking when he featured on the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Morning Live News and Current Affairs segment.
Dr Kunda said the process of compensating the affected residents has already begun.
Dr Kunda said MCA Zambia will compensate the residents for all their structures and properties, including ordinary fruit trees as well as makeshift structures.
He said, however, that the MCA Zambia cannot compensate everyone at the same time but that this will be done in phases.
Dr Kunda assured that the MCA Zambia will ensure that all the affected residents are empowered and have better livelihoods afterwards.
He said the method of payment is determined by the property owners and that all affected residents will undergo some training on financial management.
Dr Kunda appealed to the residents to co-operate with the contractors on the ground.
Among the components of the project is the upgrading of the main drainage structure from Bombay in Kamwala trading area to the Ngwerere Stream in Mazyopa Settlement.
The project will also include the expansion of the Kaunda Square township sewer ponds.
Meanwhile, Dr Kunda said the payment of a “huge sum” of money that government institutions owed the LWSC will help the company recapitalise and reinvest in major projects.
He said the government had settled 75 percent of the large debt its ministries and departments owed LWSC.