By KENNEDY MUPESENI –

THE National Association for Small and Medium Contractors (NASMC) has urged the incoming Republican president to continue prioritising the construction sector.
The Patriotic Front (PF) under late President Michael Sata embarked on road infrastructure development dubbed the Link Zambia 8000, Pave Zambia 2000 and L400 road projects, which were key in transforming the economy.
Association president Mutale Mpepo said in an interview that the construction sector had benefited a lot of local contractors in the country.
“Whoever will take the mantle from the late President Michael Sata should continue prioritising the construction sector and finish all the projects initiated by him,” Mr Mpepo said.
He said for the first time in many years, the country saw massive construction from roads, to hospitals and schools and that these were positive to help economic growth.
Mr Mpepo recalled that the Citizen Economic Empowerment Act which stipulated giving 20 per cent of works to local contractors increased opportunities for the sector to flourish.
He warned that neglecting the sector would be detrimental to economic development of the country.
Mr Mpepo said with political will, the sector would continue recording significant improvements and continue created jobs for the masses especially the youths.
He also urged his members to execute works by adhering to quality standards for them to continue winning tenders from the public and private clients.
The small and medium contractors should take advantage of the National Construction Commission (NCC) School to update themselves with the latest technology in the construction industry.