The challenges of cross-border traffic in Kasumbalesa: a search for innovative solutions
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a major challenge: the congestion of cross-border traffic in Kasumbalesa, in the province of Haut-Katanga. To remedy this problem, a Congolese delegation, led by the Minister of Transport, Marc Ekila Likombo, went to South Africa in search of appropriate solutions.
During their visit to Pretoria, the Congolese delegation held working meetings, carried out field visits and signed agreements aimed at improving exchanges between the Member States of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). . The South African Department of Transport and its agencies shared their expertise in air traffic control, cross-border road transport, rail construction and South Africa’s largest interchange in Durban.
Among the results of this mission, the South African border transport facilitation agency, Cross Border, has undertaken to use its expertise in the fight against customs fraud. It also showcased its import and export cargo control services, online driver’s license issuance and electronic payment.
This initiative was not limited to the Ministry of Transport. The Governor of Haut-Katanga, Jacques Kyabula Katwe, as well as the public representatives of road transport (Transco and Trans-Academia), rail (SNCC), maritime (CVM), air (Congo Airways) and the Office de gestion du multimodal freight (OGEFREM), were also present.
This collaboration between the DRC and South Africa opens up new prospects for decongesting cross-border traffic in Kasumbalesa. By sharing their experiences and implementing innovative solutions, the two countries seek to facilitate trade and improve the fluidity of transport.
It is important to emphasize that this initiative is part of a broader desire to promote the economic development of the region. By improving transport infrastructure and facilitating cross-border trade, the DRC and South Africa are helping to strengthen regional integration and stimulate economic growth.
In conclusion, the search for solutions to decongest cross-border traffic in Kasumbalesa is a crucial step in the development of the DRC and the region. The collaboration between the DRC and South Africa will provide innovative and sustainable solutions, thus promoting trade and exchanges between the two countries. Hopefully this initiative paves the way for new opportunities for economic development and regional cooperation