Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jappie Mhango, M.P., says Government is pushing for the completion of the Nkando Bridge within the next five to six months in order to enhance trade,
improve transport efficiency, and strengthen regional connectivity in Mulanje and surrounding districts.
The minister made the remarks on Wednesday during an inspection of the Nkando Bridge project at Nkando Trading Centre along the Robert Mugabe Highway, also known as the Limbe–Chisitu M4 Road. He described the visit as an opportunity to assess progress on a project that has experienced prolonged delays.
“I am glad to be here today to appreciate the progress on Nkando Bridge, a project that started a long time ago. I have been informed that two contractors previously abandoned the project due to various challenges, and the current contractor is the third to take on the works,” said Mhango.
He noted that the current contractor has registered notable progress, with construction works now estimated at about 50 percent completion.
“There is good progress so far. The project is at about 50 percent, and I would like to see this bridge completed within the next five to six months so that it can be opened to traffic,” he said.
Mhango further emphasized that Government is keen to ensure the project is completed within the projected timeframe to restore reliable transport along the M4 Road, a key route linking Mulanje to Blantyre and supporting the movement of goods and people across the Southern Region.
Member of Parliament for Mulanje West, Honourable Patricia Kaliati, welcomed the progress, saying completion of the bridge will significantly improve trade and connectivity in the area. She noted that limited access across the river has, for years, disrupted movement to markets.
“The connectivity challenges between communities on either side of the river have been a major problem, especially when accessing markets. With this bridge nearing completion, that challenge will come to an end,” said Kaliati.
She added that the bridge is strategically important for trade, as it links Mulanje to Blantyre and provides access to Mozambique, making it easier for farmers and traders to transport agricultural produce.
Nkando Bridge is being constructed to replace a temporary single-lane Bailey bridge that has restricted traffic flow and tonnage capacity. The new permanent bridge, measuring approximately 141.65 metres, is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency and stimulate economic activity once completed.