Ernst remained in New Frankfurt City for three days, chiefly to inspect the surrounding environment.
If the capital were to be established inland, then first of all, like First Town, it could not develop heavily polluting industries. Therefore, nearly all heavy industrial and resource-based cities in the central region lay outside Ernst's range of choices.
Second, transportation had to be well developed, allowing rapid access to every part of the country. Many central cities met this standard, such as New Frankfurt City, Lusaka, and Kabwe. The southern Copperbelt, benefiting from the Central Railway, was likewise easily accessible.
Then there was the environment, which was instead a secondary concern. Most plateau regions within East Africa were fairly livable, and their scenery was much the same.
By that measure, New Frankfurt City fulfilled all the above requirements and was very suitable as a capital. Of course, given Ernst's style, he would most likely not establish the capital on New Frankfurt City's original site. New Frankfurt City had risen on the strength of the railway, and its inherent conditions might not necessarily be the best in the region.
As for the other cities, Kabwe was Zambia's largest mineral development area, especially rich in lead, zinc, and heavy-metal mineral resources. Most cities such as Lusaka had risen by relying on mineral deposits like copper mines, so they too were outside Ernst's consideration.
But Ernst could not possibly be the only one worrying over such troublesome matters. Choosing the site of a capital was a complex and momentous issue, so the location of the new capital would inevitably have to undergo repeated investigation and screening.
After concluding his trip, Ernst immediately decided to return to First Town and dispatch professionals to survey the areas surrounding New Frankfurt City.
Professional matters were left to professionals. The