ZAMBIA’s busy Nakonde border post is in for a significant upgrade, thanks to a collaborative effort announced yesterday.
Government partnered with Trademark Africa to upgrade the Nakonde border crossing with a funding of US$10 million from the World Bank and the UK government.
Construction is expected to take 12 months and aims to improve border efficiency by reducing wait times by 30 percent.
This project is expected to significantly benefit Zambia’s trade with Tanzania and neighboring countries like DR Congo and Zimbabwe. The Nakonde border currently processes around 800 trucks daily and generates K3.1 billion in annual revenue.
Upgraded features include new access roads, cargo scanning systems, digital clearance processes, and improved infrastructure.
Minister of Finance and National Development Situmbeko Musokotwane said during the signing ceremony that this project is crucial to improving Zambia’s export capabilities.
Musokotwane noted that the country could only thrive if it enhances its export and import business as poverty could only be eradicated by focusing on exportation.
During the same ceremony, the British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, announced an increase in the UK’s contribution from the initial US$ 8.2 million.
“I am pleased to announce that the UK now expects to mobilise a further US$ 2 million for the necessary construction costs, taking the total UK contribution to over US$10 Million.”
“This addition is over US$800,000 for support for preparatory works we have already delivered, and a firm demonstration of how much we value this agenda,” announced Woolley.
Achim Fock, World Bank country manager for Zambia, emphasised the project’s broader impact.
Fock said the Bank’s support, through the TRACER project, aims to improve trade connectivity between Zambia and Tanzania, benefiting the entire region.
He said the TRACER project will expand economic activity along the busy and congested – Dar es Salaam Corridor by developing the Nakonde one-stop border post with Tanzania among many other activities.
Trademark Africa CEO David Beer, outlined the project’s scope which will focus on building new infrastructure, installing modern cargo scanners, and digitalizing clearance processes to streamline border operations.
“These upgrades will improve clearance efficiency and reduce cargo dwell time to by at least 30 percent,” Beer said.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba March 21, 2024
