**Fatshimetrie: Unprecedented Partnerships in Road Infrastructure between the DRC and Côte d’Ivoire**
In the heart of Kinshasa, discussions of a new kind have emerged, highlighting a promising collaboration between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Côte d’Ivoire in the field of road infrastructure. As the continent’s attention turns to improving transport networks, these exchanges of expertise outline a common future marked by progress and innovation.
José Ekwambengo, a key figure in the DRC Roads Office, underlines the importance of this cross-border cooperation. “By joining forces with the Ageroute of Côte d’Ivoire, we are aiming for excellence in road infrastructure. The five-year program that we have designed requires their expertise to guarantee the quality and sustainability of our projects, thus meeting the most demanding international standards.”
The DRC, with its vast road network in Central Africa, faces major challenges in terms of design, construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of infrastructure. The use of new technologies and compliance with international standards are becoming imperatives to ensure the country’s economic and social development.
In this context, the workshop organized by the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority in Kinshasa provided an exceptional forum for discussion for Congolese engineers. Prof. Liévin Chirhalwirwa highlighted the strategic importance of the Northern Corridor, a true artery of development linking several countries in the region by a vast network of roads and railways.
South-South cooperation between the DRC and Côte d’Ivoire opens up new perspectives, strengthening institutional ties and promoting the exchange of experiences. Ageroute’s participation in strategic meetings and contribution to infrastructure master plans are opportunities for convergence towards sustainable and efficient solutions.
In 1985, the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Agreement laid the foundations for regional collaboration aimed at facilitating the transit of goods across the territories of the Member States. Today, this initiative takes on its full meaning in a global context where the connectivity of transport networks is becoming a major issue for economic development and the prosperity of populations.
The road to a safer and more prosperous future for the DRC and Côte d’Ivoire is now taking shape on a common path, where the exchange of expertise and cross-border cooperation are paving the way for a new era of sustainable development. By joining forces and know-how, these two countries are paving the way for a fruitful collaboration that brings hope for the common future of the entire region.