Zambia’s ambitions to become a regional transport and logistics hub received a £9.1 million (approximately $11.3 million USD) shot in the arm with a recent grant from the United Kingdom.
This significant investment will be directed towards the modernization of the Nakonde One Stop border post, a critical gateway for trade between Zambia and neighbouring Tanzania.
The enthusiastic support for the project was conveyed by the Zambian government through Frank Tayali, Minister of Transport and Logistics. Enhancing trade with Tanzania and solidifying Zambia’s position as a regional transit hub are two benefits that Minister Tayali highlighted will come from the improved border station. In addition to meeting Zambia’s internal demands, he emphasized that the country’s strong infrastructure development is essential to the smooth operation of trade with its neighbors.
British High Commissioner Nicholas Woolley recently visited Minister Tayali’s office to reiterate the UK’s commitment to this program.
High Commissioner Woolley emphasized that there are expected advantages that go beyond Zambia. It presently takes six hours to travel between Tanzania and Zambia; the upgraded Nakonde border station is anticipated to cut that time in half. In addition to helping companies and merchants, this transit time decrease is anticipated to boost the overall level of area economic activity.
This partnership between Zambia and the UK is an important step toward creating a more efficient and linked Southern African transportation system.
Zambia is in a strong position to maintain its role as a major player in regional trade thanks to the modernization of the Nakonde border post. This initiative could lead to economic growth not only in Zambia but also in its surrounding nations, laying the groundwork for a more wealthy and integrated Southern Africa.
