Zambia launches $1.6bn urea plant expansion
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Mwebantu
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has launched the second phase of the expansion of United Capital Fertiliser’s urea plant in Lusaka, a project valued at $1.6 billion. He warned that public officials responsible for delays to projects and tenders would be held accountable, Mwebantu reports.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema inaugurated the second phase of the expansion of United Capital Fertiliser’s urea plant in Lusaka on Tuesday, 20 October, a project valued at $1.6 billion, Mwebantu reports. At the ceremony, he warned public officials that he would not tolerate delays in project delivery, particularly those caused by prolonged tendering processes.
Hichilema urged young people to report officials who slowed down work. He defended public-private partnerships and said the state should work with interested companies rather than make them wait for months or even years because of procedures. The president said United Capital Fertiliser’s investment demonstrated the company’s confidence in the government and Zambia’s economic prospects.
The head of state added that the company had committed to investing a total of $5 billion by 2031. He called for support for investment in the chemical industry and linked the project to the government’s Grow Zambia agenda, which focuses on economic growth, industrialisation and job creation.
The inauguration follows several statements by Hichilema on investment and economic development, including his appeal to Zambians to support the Grow Zambia development agenda, published on 4 October. On 12 October, Minister Charles Milupi welcomed Hichilema’s 2026-2031 development plan.
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
