The rehabilitation works on Lumumba Boulevard in Kalemie have officially commenced. The project, undertaken by companies CREC-7 and CREC-9, involves the complete reconstruction of the boulevard using reinforced concrete. The works were launched on October 1 in the presence of the Deputy Director-General of the Congolese Agency for Major Works (ACGT). The project aims to provide a durable solution to the coastal erosion threatening the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
The rehabilitation project, funded under the Sino-Congolese Programme, also includes measures to protect the coastline. A combination of rock armoring and construction of reinforced concrete retaining walls will be used to prevent further erosion. The boulevard, which has been severely affected by the rising waters of Lake Tanganyika since 2022, will be raised to protect it from future flooding. A critical peak was recorded in 2024, prompting urgent intervention.
A total of 11.1 kilometers of road are being upgraded as part of the modernization effort. The reconstructed boulevard will feature a 20-centimeter thick reinforced concrete surface. Additionally, new drainage infrastructure, including culverts and gutters, will be built at locations identified by recent technical studies. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of future flooding and ensure the long-term sustainability of the road.
Preparatory works are already underway, with metallic sheet piles stored at the CREC-7 base in Kalemie. These will be driven along the entire length of the shoreline to provide additional protection. The project also involves the construction of a hybrid reinforced concrete wall and a gabion wall to safeguard the shoreline against wave action.
The Deputy Director-General of ACGT recently inspected the Kalemie-Manono road project, which has reached a significant milestone. The 426-kilometer stretch of road is now entirely open, with a section of National Route 5 and part of National Route 33 completed. All old bridges have been replaced with more resilient structures, including a 320-meter long bridge over the Luvua River.
The Kalemie-Manono road project has improved access to the port of Mtoa, constructed about 30 kilometers from Kalemie. This logistics corridor facilitates the transportation of lithium from Manono to international markets. The port's operations have enhanced the region's economic prospects and provide a vital link for local industries.
The rehabilitation of Lumumba Boulevard and the protection of the Lake Tanganyika shoreline are critical to the economic and social development of the region. With the project underway, residents and local businesses can look forward to improved infrastructure and reduced risk from coastal erosion and flooding. The project's success will depend on effective implementation and maintenance to ensure long-term benefits.
Key points
- The Lumumba Boulevard rehabilitation project involves reconstructing 11.1 kilometers of road using reinforced concrete to protect against future flooding.
- The project includes measures to protect the coastline from erosion using rock armoring and reinforced concrete retaining walls.
- The rehabilitation works are funded under the Sino-Congolese Programme and aim to provide a durable solution to coastal erosion and flooding in the region.
