Construction to Begin on Kasomeno-Mwenda Road and Bridge Project
The Kasomeno-Mwenda Road and Bridge Project, a key infrastructure initiative connecting Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has moved forward with the signing of a construction contract.
Groupe Europeén de Development (GED) Projects Africa Zambia Limited, the concessionaire for the project, signed the agreement with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) at a ceremony held at the Southern Sun Hotel in Lusaka.
Mr. Klaus Findt, CEO of GED Africa Zambia Limited, and Mr. Yang Qu, General Manager of CCECC, signed the contract on behalf of their respective companies.
The project encompasses the construction of the Kasomeno-Kasenga-Chalwe-Mwenda Road, including drainage structures, a One Stop Border Post (OSBP), and a new bridge over the Luapula River.
The project is funded through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement between GED Africa and the governments of Zambia and DRC.
The total project cost is estimated at US$180 million, with a 25-year concession period. Construction is expected to be completed within three years.
CCECC will mobilize equipment on site this month (May 2024) and commence construction works in June 2024.
This project is expected to significantly improve transportation between Zambia and the DRC, facilitating trade and economic growth in both countries.
The construction of the bridge over the Luapula River will provide a vital link, while the One Stop Border Post will streamline border crossing procedures.
