The long-awaited Lilongwe Bridge has officially been opened to traffic, marking a major milestone in Malawi’s infrastructure development.
The Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Dr. Feston Kaupa, M.P., and the Japanese Ambassador to Malawi, His Excellency Ambassador Oya, presided over the opening ceremony in Lilongwe on Thursday morning.
Speaking after cutting the ribbon, Dr. Kaupa expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for financing the project and for its continued support to Malawi’s transport and public works sector.
“This bridge will help decongest traffic and reduce travel time for commuters and business people,” Dr. Kaupa said. “It is a vital link along the M1 Road, which connects various parts of the country and facilitates trade beyond our borders.”
The Minister also addressed concerns about street vendors potentially occupying parts of the new bridge. He said the Ministry has already engaged the Lilongwe City Council to conduct awareness campaigns discouraging trading activities on the structure.
“We trust the City Council will ensure that all vendors conduct their business in designated trading areas within the city,” he added.
In his remarks, Ambassador Oya described the new bridge as one of Japan’s flagship infrastructure projects in Malawi.
He said he was thrilled to see vehicles crossing the bridge for the first time and confirmed that the bridge will be officially handed over to the Malawi government early next year, between January and February.
“Japan remains committed to supporting Malawi in various sectors of development,” the Ambassador said.
Meanwhile, Tsoka Free Market Chairman Steve Magombo said the market’s leadership would work closely with authorities to prevent vendors from encroaching on the bridge.
The new bridge features separate lanes for motor vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, making it a modern and inclusive facility expected to improve mobility and boost economic activity in the capital.
Roads Authority Malawi
Malawi Government
Jica Malawi