Zambia’s aspiration to emerge as a pivotal regional transport and logistics hub received a substantial boost of £9.1 million (approximately $11.3 million USD) from the United Kingdom, aimed at modernizing the Nakonde One Stop border post, a vital conduit for trade between Zambia and neighboring Tanzania.
Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, conveyed the government’s enthusiastic endorsement of the project, emphasizing its potential to enhance trade with Tanzania and solidify Zambia’s stature as a regional transit nexus.
Minister Tayali underscored the critical role of robust infrastructure development in facilitating seamless trade operations with neighboring countries.
During a visit to Minister Tayali’s office, British High Commissioner Nicholas Woolley reaffirmed the UK’s steadfast commitment to the program, highlighting the anticipated benefits that extend beyond Zambia’s borders.
Presently, the journey between Tanzania and Zambia takes six hours, but the upgraded Nakonde border station is poised to halve this transit time, significantly enhancing trade efficiency and stimulating economic activity across the region.
The partnership between Zambia and the UK represents a significant stride toward establishing a more interconnected and efficient Southern African transportation network.
With the modernization of the Nakonde border post, Zambia is poised to maintain its pivotal role in regional trade, fostering economic growth not only within its borders but also in neighboring nations, paving the way for a more prosperous and integrated Southern Africa.
