Zambia’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the nation into a regional aviation hub, as work on the upgrade of Mansa Airport progresses under a strategic partnership with China Jiangsu International. This development was highlighted by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, during a high-level meeting in Lusaka with Som Qinbo, Chairman of China Jiangsu International. Minister Tayali warmly welcomed the Chinese delegation and expressed deep appreciation for the longstanding and productive relationship between Zambia and China.
The Minister emphasized the historical and enduring ties between the two countries, which date back to Zambia’s independence in 1964. He pointed to major joint achievements, such as the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), as symbols of the strong friendship and cooperation built by the countries’ founding leaders—Chairman Mao Zedong of China and Zambia’s first president, Dr Kenneth Kaunda.
Tayali underlined that infrastructure development is key to Africa’s economic growth and regional connectivity. “Africa’s growth hinges on resilient, modern infrastructure,” he said. “As Zambia is strategically positioned at the heart of the continent, we are determined to become a key aviation hub through investments like the Mansa Airport upgrade.” The government aims to use Zambia’s central location as a springboard to increase air connectivity both domestically and across the African continent.
The Mansa Airport upgrade project, valued at K740 million, is being executed under the Design and Build model. It is expected to be completed within a 17-month timeline. Minister Tayali acknowledged that progress on the project has reached 7 percent, with key milestones such as mobilisation and the design review phase already completed. He praised the commitment of China Jiangsu International to continue work on the project despite some delays in the release of funds.
“Your commitment to progress, despite funding delays, demonstrates true partnership,” Tayali noted, while assuring the contractor that the Ministry of Transport and Logistics is actively engaging the Ministry of Finance to speed up the release of funds to meet contractual obligations.
One of the challenges the project faces is the delay in securing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval. Minister Tayali assured stakeholders that the Ministry is working closely with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) to obtain the necessary approvals by April 30, 2025. He emphasized that environmental standards and procedures are being respected as the country develops its infrastructure.
The Minister concluded by reiterating the government’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and responsible use of public resources. He stated that the Ministry will continue to closely monitor the project to ensure it is completed on time and within budget. “We are committed to enhancing air connectivity across provincial centers and improving Zambia’s aviation infrastructure to drive economic growth and regional integration,” he said.
As Zambia pursues its goal of becoming a major aviation hub in the region, the Mansa Airport upgrade marks an important step in improving transportation networks, supporting trade, and unlocking broader economic opportunities across Southern and Central Africa.
