By SYLVIA MWEETWA –

GOVERNMENT has released K1 million towards the construction of three palaces in Central Province.
Central Province Minister Davis Chisopa has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to invest in infrastructure development especially at the grassroots level.
The three palaces to be constructed are for Chieftainess Serenje, Senior Chief Chipepo in Kapiri Mposhi and Chief Moono in Mumbwa District.
Mr Chisopa said the Patriotic Front (PF) Government would  continue prioritising infrastructure development which  includes the construction  of  chiefs palaces.
Mr Chisopa said this during the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the palaces in Serenje on Monday.
He said Government  under the leadership of President Edgar Lungu was aware that the  39 chiefs in the province did not have accommodation befitting their status as custodians of the country’s  traditions and culture.
He said the ground breaking ceremony signified the new milestone in the journey for the construction of palaces countrywide.
He said the release of the funds towards construction of palaces marks the beginning in the quest to improve the living condition of chiefs in the province and the country at large.
The minister disclosed that apart from the construction of the palaces, the programme would include putting up museums.
Chieftainess Serenje  commended President Lungu  for implementing projects  left by late President  Michael Sata describing the move as a sign of humility.
Chieftainess Serenje said she was happy that Government was fulfilling its promise of improving accommodation status for traditional leaders which was made by late president Sata.