GIDEON NYENDWA
PRESIDENT Félix Tshisekedi has praised the transformative leadership of Governor Marie Thérèse Masuka Saini following the inauguration of the new modular terminal at Kolwezi International Airport, a landmark infrastructure project built entirely with local resources and without foreign loans.
President Tshisekedi, who presided over the official opening ceremony in Lualaba Province on June 11, 2025, hailed the development as a symbol of self-reliance and visionary governance.
He commended Ms. Masuka, the DRC’s only female provincial governor for translating his national development agenda into tangible progress that not only uplifts Lualaba but unlocks broader regional potential, particularly for Zambia.
Known as the “Joan of Arc of Lualaba,” Ms. Masuka is redefining what leadership looks like in a male-dominated space. Her disciplined and inclusive approach has delivered critical infrastructure that meets international aviation standards while positioning Kolwezi as a gateway for regional integration, economic diversification, and institutional growth.
The new terminal, along with a fire station and road interchange also inaugurated by the President, was expected to facilitate cross-border trade, improve logistics in the mining sector, and boost tourism.
The impact was particularly significant for Zambia, where towns like Ndola and Chingola are poised to benefit from faster cargo movement, lower transport costs, and stronger commercial links.
Zambia’s Ministry of Transport and Logistics must take interest in developing direct air routes and exploring bilateral partnerships around Kolwezi’s emerging regional role.
Ms. Masuka noted that the airport stands as proof that public infrastructure can be delivered efficiently through local planning, transparent governance, and without external debt.
She emphasised that the project is part of a broader strategy to strengthen institutions, empower citizens, and promote gender equity in leadership.
President Tshisekedi underscored that this was “not just about infrastructure,” but about setting a new precedent for African development one anchored in local capacity and the full inclusion of women in decision-making.
Ms Masuka’s leadership marked by empathy, accountability, and vision continues to inspire women across the DRC and Africa to view public service as both impactful and accessible.
Other projects the traffic inter-charge for easy access to the airport, numerous number of township roads improving traffic circulation, Schools and health facilities to serve the community, and many other community projects
As regional neighbours take note, Kolwezi’s airport becomes more than a transport hub; it’s a symbol of what African nations can achieve through homegrown, debt-free development and inclusive leadership.
