By MAIMBOLWA MULIKELELA –
THE African Development Bank (AfDB) has commenced the feasibility study on Nseluka-Mpulungu Railway project which is expected to cost about US$50 million.
Government has been seeking an investor to partner with in the construction of Nseluka-Mpulungu Railway line which has been in the pipeline for 22 years.
Nseluka, located in Mungwi District, 35 kilometres north of Kasama District in Northern Province, is one of Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) stations.
AfDB resident representative Damoni Kitabire said this in an interview in Lusaka.
He said the feasibility study which was expected to be completed in a year had started before any investment was made.
Mr Kitabire said the bank would finance the Nseluka-Mpulungu rail project at an estimated cost of $50 million, which is yet to be approved by the board.
“Before any investment is made it will be important to look at the financial and economic benefits from the project and ensure viability,” he said.
Mr Kitabire said it was important to note that both the Nseluka–Mpulungu railway and Mpulungu port projects were undergoing feasibility studies.
The rehabilitation of Mpulungu port was expected to cost about $40 million and it would also be financed by AfDB.
The two projects, once concluded, would stimulate job creation and rural development, thereby boosting inclusive growth.
