The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has commenced the electrification of Kaumbwe Mini Hospital and its surrounding communities of Kaumbwe Constituency, in Petauke.

This is under the ‘Kaumbwe Mini Hospital Grid Intensification Project,’ being undertaken at a cost of K4.2 million.

Speaking during a courtesy call on Petauke District Commissioner (DC) Martha Mulenga, REA Regional Manager Lavender Kamanga indicated that the project was expected to be completed within 40 weeks.

“The contract sum is K4.2 million. The project will be undertaken by Loyal Towers Engineering Limited, a local contractor,” she said.

“The scope of the works covers the mini hospital itself and essential structures such as the new chief’s palace,” she added.

Meanwhile, Ms Mulenga said electrifying the hospital will improve service delivery and ensure quality healthcare services.

“It is a good development for the district because all the patients that come from Mwanjawanthu area are referred either to Minga or Petauke District hospitals.

Having power at the facility means an upgrade on services offered,” she said.

Ms Mulenga further appealed to the institution to engage local youths during the execution of the project.

“When you get on the ground, please consider our local youths; this is the only time that our local youths can be empowered,” she said.

And speaking through Induna Mabvuto Sakala, Chieftainess Mwanjawanthu of the Nsenga people of Petauke District appealed to community members to support the contractor to ensure the successful implementation of the project.

He said the Chieftainess was elated with the development.