Examining the Effectiveness of Chinese Infrastructure Investments in Zambia’s Urban Development: A Case Study of Selected Parts Lusaka East

This study examined the impact of Chinese-funded infrastructure projects on urban development in Lusaka East, with a particular focus on mobility, housing, economic activity, service delivery, and sustainability. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining survey questionnaires with secondary data to gather insights from 100 respondents across different residential areas. The demographic data showed that most participants were young and middle-aged adults, with a fairly balanced gender distribution and varied educational and occupational backgrounds. The findings revealed that road networks improved significantly, reducing travel time for many communities, though traffic congestion remained problematic in densely populated areas. Housing projects were viewed as modern and well-constructed but largely unaffordable for ordinary residents, with 50% of respondents stating they were only accessible to the wealthy. In terms of economic impact, projects created some jobs and business opportunities, but most were temporary and lacked skills transfer, raising concerns about sustainability. Access to services such as healthcare and education improved in certain areas, yet disparities persisted, with poorer neighborhoods benefiting less. Social and environmental challenges were also reported, including limited community involvement in project planning, displacement of households and traders, and negative environmental effects such as drainage problems and loss of green spaces. Respondents emphasized the need for more inclusive, transparent, and environmentally conscious approaches. The study recommends stronger community participation, mandatory local hiring and training, affordable housing strategies, stricter environmental safeguards, and better maintenance plans. These measures would ensure that foreign-funded infrastructure projects not only enhance urban aesthetics but also deliver equitable and sustainable benefits to the wider population.