Collapse of the Bundwe bridge in the DRC: consequences on supplies and the local economy
In August 2023, the collapse of the Bundwe bridge in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) caused major disruptions in the supply of certain goods from Greater Katanga to the center of the country. For eight days, many trucks loaded with goods have been blocked, waiting for the rehabilitation of the bridge to cross to Kasai-Oriental and Lomami. This situation risks leading to a shortage and an increase in prices of certain products from the South of the country.
The Bundwe bridge, which connects the provinces of Lualaba and Haut-Katanga to that of Haut-Lomami and the Grand Kasaï area, collapsed on August 20 under the weight of an overloaded truck. According to the provincial Minister of Infrastructure of Haut-Lomami, Raphael Yolo, this bridge, built since the colonial era, no longer supports large tonnages. It is therefore necessary to build a new bridge to ensure the safety of the crossing.
The Bundwe bridge, 173 meters long, is a strategic axis for trade between the regions of Grand Katanga and Grand Kasaï. Its rehabilitation is therefore urgent to revive the local and national economy. In the meantime, many trucks remain stuck, causing delays in the delivery of goods and increasing transport costs.
Faced with this situation, it is essential to find quick solutions to repair the Bundwe Bridge and ensure the continuity of the supply of essential goods. Local and national authorities must work together to find the necessary funding and start rehabilitation work as soon as possible. This will limit the impact on the economy and avoid a shortage of essential products.
In conclusion, the collapse of the Bundwe bridge in the DRC has significant consequences on supplies and the local economy. It is crucial to take rapid action to repair this bridge and ensure the continued flow of essential goods. The rehabilitation of infrastructure is an essential issue to revive the local economy and promote regional development