PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated the government’s strategic partnership with the People’s Republic of China’s Head of State, Xi Jinping, towards development.
Speaking at the official re-opening of the Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles (ZCMT) Joint Venture in Kabwe today, President Hichilema thanked President Xin Jinping for the strategic partnership between the two countries, emphasising that nothing happens by chance but through intentional effort for the benefit of the people of Zambia.
President Hichilema stated that the government’s love for the people of Zambia drives the government’s commitment to work hard and develop the country.
“The revival of Mulungushi Textiles is the awakening of Kabwe and the province at large,” he said.
President Hichilema highlighted that Kabwe will be revitalised through numerous government-led initiatives, reiterating that the plant is owned by the people of Zambia and China in a joint venture to benefit the Zambian populace.
“Let us work together with one agenda: to develop Kabwe and our country. We want to see this plant fully realise its potential so that more value can be added,” he stated.
He also called upon textile workers and farmers to do their part in ensuring that the factory is supplied with necessary produce, such as cotton seeds.
Speaking at the same event, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, revealed that 200 megawatts of solar power will be established at ZCMT through the Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles Power company to meet the energy needs.
Mr Mulenga highlighted that the industrialisation of Kabwe, with numerous investments in the province, is a result of the government’s favourable investment environment.
He also announced that 6,000 out-grower farmers will be empowered to supply cotton to the market for ZCMT.
“Another production line will be added to the facility by the end of the year, which will produce bedsheets, chitenges, and curtains,” he said.
ZCMT Managing Director, Ju Wenbin speaking on behalf of the Chinese shareholders, said that President Xin Jinping has reaffirmed his commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
“We’re confident that this project will strengthen the long-standing friendship between Zambia and China,” he added.
Zambia Manufacturing Association (ZAM) President, Umar Muhamad, attributed the success of the initiative to the government’s pro-development agenda, noting that this is evident through the many ongoing developments.
Meanwhile, Central Province Minister Mwabashike Nkulukusa stated that the province currently contributes about 58 Billion Kwacha to the country’s GDP, citing the need for the Province to continue advancing in development.
Earlier, Kabwe Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Kapai Banda committed to being an active partner with the government to make Kabwe a competitive hub again.
He pledged to work towards creating marketing linkages across Central, Eastern, and Southern Provinces, emphasising that strengthening these value chains is a source of national pride for now and the future.
The Zambia Freedom Fighters Association National Chairman, George Chewe and Copperbelt University Student Union President, Busuma Mulungushi described the revamping of Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles as a symbol of hope and renewal, which aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
