LOCAL Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo has launched a K1.8 million luxury cruise boat called ‘King Lewanik’ that will promote tourism and create jobs in Mongu.
Mr Nkombo said when he launched the 69-seater cruise boat at Mongu harbour, yesterday that Government was positive that the business venture when properly marketed and managed would enhance locally generated revenue for the council.
He said that the launch of the luxury tourism vessel vindicated Government’s position on the need for home grown solutions towards economic recovery and job creation as it was an eye-catching venture which had potential to create job opportunities.
Mr Nkombo said August 11, 2022 was a special day on the political calendar, as it was the eve of the one year since the New Dawn administration was ushered into office by Zambians through the majority vote.
“Since coming into office, my ministry has been encouraging local authorities to leverage on the good Government policies and venture into innovations for effectively service delivery,” Mr Nkombo said.
He said it was Government’s expectation that decent ventures by local authorities should raise enough dividends that should be ploughed into service delivery in local communities.
Mr Nkombo in reference to the United Party for National Development (UPND) manifesto said Government placed tourism as one of the core job-rich sectors.
“The luxury cruise boat has vindicated Government’s position on the need for home grown solutions towards economic recovery and job creation as it is an eye-catching venture which has potential to create job opportunities,” the minister said.
He also acknowledged that the traditional leadership’s support towards developmental projects and the increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) demonstrated the Government’s vision to ensure that local authorities provided quality services.
He urged members of the public not to abuse the vessel or mismanage it as doing so would infringe on Government’s efforts to protect public resources.
