Smart corridors support land-linked strategy

Digitisation of corridor management is being promoted by the Zambian government as the driving force behind its land- linked strategy. Speaking at the official launch of the fourth edition of the Land-Linked Zambia Conference which was held in April, transport and logistics minister Frank Tayali said the theme of embracing smart transport corridors in Africa “was a clarion call to action – a call for innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning as we work to transform Africa into a continent that is seamlessly connected and economically vibrant”. He added that Zambia was playing a critical central role in these efforts of connecting Africa and beyond. “Beyond economic benefits, smart transport corridors have the power to unite the continent. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, Africa cannot afford to be left behind. “We must embrace the future and build transport networks that are not only efficient but also resilient and adaptive to the changing needs of our societies,” he said. The corridors linking Zambia to ports and the region are the North– South Corridor, Beira Corridor, Central Corridor, Walvis Bay Corridor and Lobito Corridor. The positioning of Zambia as a central logistics hub is receiving widespread support. David Willima, maritime researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, says “Zambia’s strategic central location – equidistant from the Atlantic and Indian oceans – means it can serve as a vital hub, connecting various regional trade corridors. “This allows for balanced engagement with the US and China, and a diplomatic approach that serves its economic and developmental goals”. Willima believes that Zambia and other landlocked states can secure their access to the sea by using international cooperation and legal frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The land-linked strategy is being put into effect, with a focus on improving border infrastructure. The Nakonde/Tunduma one- stop border post between Zambia and Tanzania is undergoing significant upgrades. The first phase, supported by TradeMark Africa, is over 70% complete. It includes a truck scanner, access roads, and ICT equipment, according to the organisation. The second phase, funded through the World Bank’s TRACER Project, is in the procurement stage and will develop further infrastructure and staff training at Nakonde. Another important development is the signing of a $110-million build, operate and transfer concession agreement with Zamm-Imports to upgrade Kasumbalesa border post between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the busiest in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Plans include a 2 000-capacity truck park and a multi-facility economic zone. ER