Kolwezi-Sakabinda

Project details

The existing Kolwezi–Sakabinda road infrastructure is no longer adequate to support rising volumes of heavy truck traffic generated by mining activities, regional trade, and cross-border logistics. Limited road capacity, congestion, safety risks, and infrastructure degradation currently constrain economic performance and transport efficiency.

The project will deliver a modern, high-capacity road corridor that improves traffic flow, enhances safety, and strengthens regional integration between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. By reducing travel time and logistics costs, the project directly supports mining operations and broader economic growth in Lualaba Province.

Key objectives

• Improve road connectivity between Kolwezi and the Zambia border

• Support mining logistics and cross-border trade

• Enhance road safety and traffic efficiency

• Strengthen regional economic integration

Expected results

• Reduced travel time and logistics costs

• Increased freight and passenger transport capacity

• Improved road safety and mobility

• Stronger trade and mining logistics performance

Performance Indicators

• Average daily heavy-truck traffic: 703 trucks/day

• Traffic growth rate: 6.8% annually

• Payback period: 5 years

• Direct jobs during construction: ~2,000

• Project feasibility: High (90%)

Activity Schedule

The detailed activity schedule will be finalized following the completion of technical, financial, and environmental validations. The implementation timeline and phasing will be confirmed during project structuring and contractor mobilization.

Benefits & Impact

Direct benefits

• Approximately 2,000 direct jobs during construction

• Improved road safety and driving conditions

Indirect benefits

• Boost to mining logistics and regional trade

• Enhanced cross-border connectivity

• Improved access to markets and services for local communities

Impacts

• Acceleration of economic growth in Lualaba Province

• Strengthened integration with regional transport networks

• Improved living standards along the project corridor

Risks & Mitigation Measures

Key risks

• Environmental constraints

• Pressure from traffic growth

Mitigation measures

• Advanced drainage systems

• Reinforced structures and resilient design standards

Institutional & Management Information

Responsible Ministry
Provincial Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Works

Service / Institution
Office of the Provincial Minister

Project Owner
Lualaba Province

Project Manager
To be determined

Post-Project Management
Provincial Road Authority / Designated Operator