Bridge or Port? Debate Arises Over DRC's Infrastructure Priorities as Kinshasa-Brazzaville Link Faces Backlash
The proposed road-rail bridge connecting Kinshasa and Brazzaville has ignited significant debate within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Congolese Association for Access to Justice (ACAJ) has urged the national parliament to reject this project, emphasizing the necessity to prioritize the completion of the Banana deep-water port in Kongo-Central province. The ACAJ contends that advancing the bridge project at this juncture could undermine the strategic importance of the Banana port, a facility currently under development by the Qatari firm DP World. They highlight that President Félix Tshisekedi had previously committed to deferring the bridge's construction until the port becomes operational, questioning whether proceeding with the bridge now constitutes a reversal of this pledge.
Critics of the bridge project argue that it may inadvertently perpetuate the DRC's reliance on neighboring countries' ports, such as Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo, thereby hindering the development of the nation's own maritime infrastructure. The concern is that the bridge could divert traffic away from the Banana port, potentially rendering it less viable and affecting its economic prospects.
The bridge, envisioned to span approximately 1,575 meters across the Congo River, aims to facilitate both road and rail connectivity between the two capitals. While proponents assert that it would enhance regional integration and stimulate economic growth, detractors caution that without first establishing robust domestic port facilities, the DRC risks compromising its economic sovereignty and missing out on critical trade opportunities.
In light of these concerns, the ACAJ and other stakeholders advocate for a strategic reassessment of infrastructure priorities. They recommend focusing on completing the Banana deep-water port to ensure the DRC secures its own access to international maritime routes before embarking on cross-border projects that might dilute national interests.
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Sources
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