By Innocent Chunga

Nkhotakota, May 9, Mana: The Government of Iceland through its embassy in Lilongwe has committed to continue providing technical support to contractors involved in the multi-billion Kwacha Nkhotakota Basic Services Program (KKBSP) being implemented in the district.

Construction Lead for the embassy, Maggie Moyo said that technical support will assist contractors in producing high-quality works to be in line with the government's objective in the district.

She made the remarks after a technical meeting with contractors in eight primary schools where the construction of semi-detached houses, classrooms, administration offices, and toilets is taking place.

Officials from the embassy and Nkhotakota District Council visited all the eight sites where construction works are underway to monitor and appreciate progress.

Speaking in an interview after the visit, Moyo said the embassy and council officials have a role to play to ensure the works are up to standard,

"We have a role to monitor the contractors so that the works are in line with the government's commitment to delivering high-quality works” she said.

Moyo pledged the embassy`s commitment to continue providing support for the smooth implementation of the program.

Director of Creative Construction, Abdul Simoni who is constructing semi-detached houses, Classrooms, and an administration block at Dzikonilonse Primary School said the project is on schedule and expressed hope that it will be completed before 20 May, this year, as earlier planned.

"We are now at 95 percent in all facilities and we are using quality products from recommended suppliers to produce high-quality works aligned with the official's commitment,” said Simoni.

Another contractor, Cadworks Infrastructures who is constructing toilets at Msamala, Kacheyo, and Gomadzi primary schools said in some sites works have not yet started due to high water table, but said that will not affect the completion time once the works start.

Director of Education and Sports for Nkhotakota District, Godfrey Kubwense said he believes that once the projects are completed, they will improve education standards in the district.

The Nkhotakota Basic Services Program (KKBSP) is being supported with over MK11 billion to be pumped in various sectors which includes health and education. Among others.