Kasomeno-Mwenda Toll Road Project in DRC and Zambia to Boost Trade, Cut Travel Time, and Create Jobs
The Kasomeno-Mwenda Toll Road is a landmark infrastructure project connecting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia, designed to enhance regional trade, transportation efficiency, and economic development.
The project encompasses the construction of 184 kilometers of modernized highway—split evenly between Zambia (92 km) and the DRC (92 km)—a 362-meter cable-stayed bridge over the Luapula River, and a one-stop border post (OSBP) with associated facilities.
Structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the project is managed and financed by GED Africa, which serves as the concessionaire and investment manager.
Funding and Project Structure
Initial Estimated Cost: In 2016, the Zambian section, including the bridge and border post, was estimated at US$180 million.
Total Project Cost: By 2023, the total cost is projected to reach US$850 million to $1 billion.
Concession Period: GED Africa holds two 25-year concessions, one with each government, to finance, design, build, operate, maintain, and toll the road.
Project Sponsor: Duna Aszfalt Zrt., a Hungarian conglomerate, provides modern engineering technology and access to financing.
Financial Close: Discussions have focused on finalizing the OSBP operations manual and a temporary border crossing, reflecting commitment from all stakeholders.
Construction Details
Contractor: China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is responsible for building the road and bridge.
Bridge Contract: The contract for the 362-meter cable-stayed bridge was signed in March 2025.
Road Construction Start: June 2024
Projected Completion: The road and border posts are expected to be finished by December 2026, with the project opening to the public by April 2027.
Advanced Technology: The project is the first of its scale in Africa to adopt Building Information Modelling (BIM) to enhance coordination, accuracy, and construction efficiency.
Expected Impact
Reduced Travel Time: Commercial transporters, especially those serving the DRC’s mining sector, could see round-trip distances to the port of Dar es Salaam reduced by up to 500 kilometers.
Economic Hub: The project is set to position Zambia’s Luapula Province as a growing trade and agricultural hub.
Local Benefits: Communities in Mwense District and surrounding areas are expected to benefit from job creation, increased business investment, and improved connectivity.
The Kasomeno-Mwenda Toll Road is poised to become a game-changing infrastructure project for the DRC-Zambia corridor, facilitating regional trade, boosting local economies, and strengthening cross-border cooperation.
