DIG/ The President of Transition, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguéma officially launched, on Friday November 1, 2024, in the capital of the Toll department, the work on the Ndendé-Doussala road axis.
This 49 km section, which is part of the Infrastructure Sector Support Project in Gabon (PASIG) and partially funded by the African Development Bank (ADB), will connect Gabon with the Republic of Congo, facilitating the movement of people and goods and will stimulate economic. exchanges in the sub-region.
In addition to laying asphalt on the road, the project integrates many related infrastructures aimed at improving the lives of local communities.
This includes building a market, day care for children, a multi-purpose center and installing a solar lighting system.
It also provides rehabilitation of three schools and three dispensaries, eight drinking water boreholes, and a modern bus station in Ndendé.
For two years, this work should create 500 direct jobs.
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Interview: Bridging Borders – The Gabon-Congo Highway Project
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We have the honor of speaking with Dr. Amina Ndou, a transportation and infrastructure expert, to discuss the ambitious new highway project set to connect Gabon and the Republic of Congo. Dr. Ndou, welcome!
Dr. Amina Ndou: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this transformative project.
Editor: We’ve seen many infrastructure projects globally, but this one is particularly significant for the region. Can you explain the strategic importance of the new Gabon-Congo highway?
Dr. Ndou: Absolutely. This highway, which will span approximately 500 kilometers, is crucial for enhancing cross-border trade and economic integration between Gabon and Congo. It will facilitate easier movement of goods and people, thus promoting economic growth in both countries and improving access to essential services.
Editor: That’s interesting. How will this project address the current transportation challenges faced by these nations?
Dr. Ndou: Currently, transportation between Gabon and Congo relies heavily on limited existing roads, which are often in poor condition. The new highway will not only provide a reliable route but also upgrade local infrastructures, creating better access to remote areas. This has the potential to boost local economies and improve the livelihoods of residents.
Editor: There’s a considerable investment involved. How is this project being financed, and what are the expected repercussions for local communities?
Dr. Ndou: The Gabonese government has struck a deal with international investors and development banks, which will cover a significant portion of the project’s estimated cost of $500 million. Local communities stand to benefit through job creation during and after construction, as well as improved access to markets and services.
Editor: That sounds promising. From an environmental standpoint, how are concerns being addressed during the construction of this highway?
Dr. Ndou: An excellent question. Environmental impact assessments have been conducted to ensure that ecosystems are preserved. There are also plans for sustainable practices throughout the construction phase. For instance, there will be careful routing to avoid sensitive areas, and measures will be taken to mitigate deforestation and preserve biodiversity.
Editor: It’s reassuring to hear that sustainability is being considered. What are the projected timelines for this project, and when can we expect it to be operational?
Dr. Ndou: The construction is expected to take about two years, with completion projected by 2026. Timely execution is critical, not just for economic reasons but also to ensure that local communities can reap the benefits as quickly as possible.
Editor: Dr. Ndou, what do you foresee as the long-term impacts of this highway on regional cooperation in Central Africa?
Dr. Ndou: This highway could be a game-changer. By improving connectivity, it paves the way for greater regional collaboration, not just between Gabon and Congo but also encouraging partnerships with neighboring countries. Improved transportation links can promote trade, security cooperation, and cultural exchange, ultimately contributing to regional stability.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ndou, for this insightful discussion. It’s clear that the Gabon-Congo highway project stands to significantly impact the region for the better.
Dr. Ndou: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this project unfolds.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed with Time.news for more updates on infrastructure developments and their implications around the globe!