Local accounting body in Africa’s copper producer, the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) on 24 Dec signed an agreement with the world’s largest construction company, China State Engineering Corporation for the erection of a USD210million 5,000 seater international convention center in Livingstone.
This construction center will be called the Shungu Namutitima, named after the mosi -o-tunya falls. Shungu Namutitima in Tonga, one of Zambia’s local languages, means the ‘smoke that thunders.’
The signing was flagged by ZICA President Jason Kazilimani in the company of dignitaries to include Hapenga Kabeta (outgoing CEO), Bona Kashinga (CEO designate), Contract manager for Zambia branch Chen Bowei and Livingstone tourism association chairperson Rodney Sikumba. The entourage took time to view the area where the stone will be laid for construction purposes.
“We are fully on course for the construction of the Shungu Namutitima convention center which will comprise world class facilities with 2 hotels, one a 5 star while the other a 3 star. We have followed the due process in finding a contractor for the construction and this will be China State Construction Engineering Corporation,” Kazilimani said.
Environment impact assessment will commence soon.
“We are the biggest construction company in the world and have the ability to execute this project,” Contract Manager for CSCEC Zambia branch Chen Bowei said.
Livingstone tourism association chairperson Rodney Sikumba was elated by the development.
“The more facilities in the city of Livingstone, the more the flights and domino effects it will create,” he said.
ZICA’s investment in a convention center aligns with the states declaration of Livingstone the tourist capital as a national conference center in line with country’s efforts to boost tourism potential. The local accounting body has raised the bar by embarking on this lucrative project that will not only add to its bottom line but will boost tourism and put Livingstone on the map in the next 4 years when the project completes.
