The Zambian government is steadfast in its commitment to transforming the nation into a regional transport and logistics hub through the development of trade and transport corridors. This ambitious vision is set to be realized by fostering private sector involvement in infrastructure development and service provision. This was articulated by Frank Tayali, the Transport and Logistics Minister, during the 13th Ordinary Inter-State Council of Ministers Meeting for the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (CCTTFA) held in Lubumbashi.
Minister Tayali emphasized the critical role that transportation plays in the social and economic growth of any country, as well as the region as a whole. He stressed that strengthening transportation infrastructure is critical for enabling trade, increasing connectivity, and encouraging economic growth. According to Tayali, the Zambian government is working hard to improve infrastructure across all kinds of transportation, including roads, trains, aviation, dry ports, and border crossings. These upgrades are intended to ensure the efficient and smooth circulation of products and people throughout the region.
One of the significant challenges highlighted by Tayali was the high number of overloaded trucks using the Kasumbalesa Border to transport copper concentrates and acid to smelters in the Copper Belt towns. This issue arises from the differences in axle load limits between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia, leading to road damage and increased maintenance costs. Tayali stressed the need for harmonizing these axle load limits to facilitate smoother and safer transport operations.
Additionally, Tayali pointed out other obstacles impeding the smooth movement of cargo and people among Central Corridor Member States. These include the lack of mutual recognition of certificates issued by competent authorities and the non-harmonization of road transport regulations, such as permissible vehicle lengths. These disparities create bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the transport sector, hampering trade and economic integration within the region.
To address these issues, Tayali urged closer cooperation between the Secretariat and the Member States of the Central Corridor. He emphasized the significance of taking a coordinated approach to problems about logistics and transportation, stressing that the advancement of the region’s economy depends on cooperation. To create sustainable solutions, the Minister also argued for improved cooperation with all significant participants in the transportation industry, including those in the private sector.
Tayali also suggested creating a thorough monitoring and assessment system to track advancement and guarantee consistent reporting. This system would be useful in monitoring the execution of different projects and offer insightful data about areas in need of development. To keep Zambia’s attempts to become a regional hub for logistics and transportation transparent, accountable, and effective, regular monitoring and assessment are essential.
Under Minister Frank Tayali’s direction, the Zambian government is committed to enhancing the country’s transportation network and addressing the issues preventing efficient logistical operations. Zambia hopes to establish itself as a major force in the regional logistics and transportation scene by encouraging private-sector participation and regional cooperation. Economic growth and development are anticipated to be fueled by the initiatives to unify rules, upgrade infrastructure, and foster collaboration, which will benefit not only Zambia but the entire region.
