Ministry of Transport Advocates for Increased Exports via Nacala Corridor
The Ministry of Transport stresses the need for Malawi to enhance export volumes to benefit from the Nacala Corridor’s development. At the Tripartite Meeting, Secretary Mzandu discussed reducing cargo costs and fostering regional trade. The corridor is funded by the World Bank and aims to be completed by 2027, enhancing economic opportunities for Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia.
The Secretary for Transport and Public Works, David Mzandu, has highlighted the importance of increasing Malawi’s export volumes to benefit from the development of the Nacala Corridor. His remarks were made during the 9th Tripartite Meeting of the Nacala Development Corridor Management Committee held in Lilongwe, which focused on reviewing ongoing projects and future collaborations.
Mzandu noted that, while the corridor management is nascent, substantial work remains. A significant benefit anticipated from the project is a decrease in cargo landing costs, as a large portion of Malawi’s cargo currently arrives via road from Beira and Dar es Salaam. He underlined that the complete development of the corridor will lead to a notable reduction in these costs.
The meeting convened vital stakeholders, including representatives from the private sectors of Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia, to assess progress and exchange insights. This collaboration aims to reduce transport costs and foster regional trade integration among the three congregated nations.
Ambrósio Adolfo Sitoe, Mozambique’s Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, asserted that the corridor’s advancement will create opportunities for managing both current and prospective cargo, addressing the current limitations posed by inadequate facilities. He stressed the initiative’s potential for significant economic development and deeper regional integration.
The Nacala Corridor’s development is funded by the World Bank as part of the Southern Africa Trade Connectivity Project (SATCP). Launched in 2021, it is projected to reach completion by 2027.
In summary, the Nacala Corridor represents a pivotal opportunity for Malawi and its neighboring countries to enhance export capacity and facilitate regional trade. With ongoing collaboration among stakeholders, the project aims to lower transportation costs and stimulate economic growth by improving cargo handling facilities and fostering integration. The initiative underlines the importance of strategic infrastructure development in promoting trade and economic advancement.
Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com
