Provincial deputies from Kasaï-Central met with officials from the Congolese Agency for Major Works (ACGT) in Kinshasa on October 8 to discuss the project's progress. The deputies expressed concerns over delays, practicability of certain sections, bridge conditions, and project management and costs. ACGT's Director-General, Nico Nzau Nzau, acknowledged an eight-month delay due to operational difficulties. He assured that measures will be taken to gradually make up for the delay and limit its impact on the project timeline.
The Kananga-Kalamba Mbuji road, approximately 230 kilometers long, is a major project aimed at opening up the Grand Kasaï region and connecting it to regional commercial corridors. The project was relaunched in July 2024 under the Sino-Congolese Program after facing financing difficulties. As of August 2026, 50 kilometers of the road had been paved, while the remaining 180 kilometers were still passable due to maintenance work. The project includes not only the road surface but also drainage works, bridges, and other crossing structures.
The delay has raised concerns about the project's completion date, initially set for 2027. The ACGT Director-General attributed the delay to operational difficulties on the ground. He assured that efforts will be made to mitigate the delay and its impact on the overall project schedule. The project's implementation has been hampered by several challenges, affecting its timely completion.
The road is considered crucial for improving mobility, opening up localities, and enhancing economic exchanges in the Kasaï region. It will also provide access to Angolan transport infrastructure and, ultimately, to the ports of Lobito and Luanda, facilitating trade for the Kasaï region. The project has a significant budget, with nearly $6 million allocated to support communities affected or living along the road.
During the meeting, the ACGT Director-General explained that some visible works on the ground are temporary and aimed at maintaining circulation during project execution. The deputies welcomed the Director-General's availability and explanations on the project's progress. They acknowledged the project's importance and the need for its timely completion.
The project's current phase involves modernization and paving, with the goal of completing the infrastructure. The ACGT has been working to address the challenges and ensure the project's completion. The road will have a significant impact on the region's economy and connectivity.
The Kananga-Kalamba Mbuji road project is a strategic infrastructure that will boost economic growth and connectivity in the Kasaï region. Its completion will enhance trade and commerce in the region, providing access to new markets and opportunities. The project's progress will be closely monitored to ensure its timely completion.
Key points
- The Kananga-Kalamba Mbuji road project is a strategic infrastructure linking DR Congo's Kasaï region to Angola.
- The project's delay has raised concerns about its completion date, initially set for 2027.
- The road will improve mobility, open up localities, and enhance economic exchanges in the Kasaï region.
