Livingstone Mayor Officially Opens Capacity Building Workshop for Engineers

The Mayor of Livingstone has officially commenced a seven-day capacity building workshop for engineers drawn from local authorities in Southern and Western Provinces. The training program aims to strengthen technical skills and improve the quality of infrastructure development in the region.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai said the training is in line with the aspirations of the Republican President of Zambia Hakainde Hichilema, who has emphasized the importance of delivering quality infrastructure projects within the right scope, time frame, and cost.

The mayor stated that infrastructure development remains one of the most critical pillars for both economic and social growth. She explained that well-developed road networks play a key role in promoting trade, improving access to markets, supporting tourism activities, and enabling citizens to easily access essential services such as healthcare, education, and other public services.

She further encouraged the engineers to take the training seriously and to actively participate throughout the program. According to the mayor, the knowledge and skills gained during the workshop will help engineers improve infrastructure development in their respective districts and contribute to the betterment of their communities.

Meanwhile, the National Road Fund Agency (NRFA)Director/Chief Executive Officer Mr. Daniel Mtonga, said the training program will equip engineers with practical skills in key areas of road infrastructure development.

Mr. Mtonga explained that the workshop will focus on important technical aspects such as quality control, quality assurance, culvert construction, and drainage systems. He noted that these skills are essential in addressing many of the road and drainage challenges faced by communities across the country.

He added that improving the competence of engineers at local authority level will ensure better maintenance of roads and drainage infrastructure, which ultimately contributes to sustainable development.

Mr. Mtonga also encouraged the engineers to continue advancing their education by enrolling in newly introduced professional courses such as waste management and garbage collection systems. He said such courses will help local authorities effectively manage environmental challenges while improving service delivery in urban and rural communities.

The capacity building workshop has brought together engineers from various councils in Southern and Western Provinces and is expected to enhance their technical knowledge and practical skills in infrastructure development and maintenance.