Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 7th May, 2025.
Kabwe, Central Province, Zambia.
In a bid to foster lasting peace and functional cooperation among traders, Central Province Minister Hon. Mwabashike Nkulukusa has initiated a multi stakeholder intervention to address ongoing tensions between timber dealers and shop owners at Hospital Junction Market in Kabwe.
During a fact finding visit, the Minister engaged directly with affected traders, accompanied by officials from Kabwe Municipal Council, Lukanga Water Supply and Sanitation Company, ZESCO and the Provincial Administration. The tour aimed to assess the root causes of conflict and identify sustainable, community centered solutions.
Minister Nkulukusa emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual respect as the foundation for resolving disputes in shared commercial spaces. “This market must remain a space of unity, not division. You are brothers and sisters. Let us keep that spirit alive,” he urged.
He also warned against the influence of opportunistic political actors who may seek to inflame tensions for personal gain. “There are those who thrive on division. We must rise above that and focus on building our communities together,” he stated.
The Minister called on government departments and local institutions to work in coordinated partnership to ensure development is delivered inclusively and without institutional silos. “No department should operate in isolation, development must be collaborative if it is to be effective and equitable,” he added.
Minister Nkulukusa assured market stakeholders of continued engagement, promising regular visits and open communication channels to support peaceful coexistence and productive business operations at the market.
The intervention reflects the government’s broader commitment to responsive governance, social cohesion, and inclusive economic growth through proactive community engagement.
The Agency.