LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Nakonde has brought hope and excitement to the local community, as he commissions the upgraded Nakonde One Stop Border Post, a game-changer for regional trade and economic growth.
The upgraded border post is expected to drastically reduce the time and cost of doing business at the crucial entry point, boosting commerce and strengthening ties between Tanzania and Zambia.
President Hichilema emphasized that the facility will enhance efficiency in the movement of goods and people between the two countries, and called for the adoption of a single digital identity system to further ease cross-border movement.
The President’s visit is also seen as a boost to his re-election campaign, with his party, the United Party for National Development (UPND), claiming that he has delivered on his promises and deserves another term in office.
The UPND points to achievements such as free education, improved human rights, and enforcement of the rule of law.
The commissioning of the Nakonde One Stop Border Post is a significant milestone in the decentralization agenda and trade facilitation efforts by the government.
The facility is expected to create job opportunities and reduce crime levels in the area.
The project was financed by a $10 million grant from the British government, and is part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and promote regional trade.
The President also announced plans to accelerate other strategic projects, including the Zambia-Tanzania power interconnector and the revitalization of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority.