from MARCUS MUSHONGA in Harare, Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Bureau
HARARE, (CAJ News) – MALAWI, Mozambique and Zimbabwe have taken a lead in improving corridor efficiency, harmonising transport regulations, strengthening border operations and enhancing infrastructure development in the region.
The three members of the 16-bloc Southern African Development Community (SADC) are meeting under the aegis of the Trilateral Joint Route Management Group and Joint Committee Meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe, until Thursday.
Joy Makumbe, Transport and Infrastructural Development Permanent Secretary of the host country, officially opened the inaugural event that bolsters infrastructure development across the trio.
“Transport corridors linking Zimbabwe, Malawi and Mozambique are critical drivers of trade, investment and economic growth in the region,” she said.
Makumbe highlighted current infrastructure development projects in Zimbabwe, including the Harare–Masvingo–Beitbridge Highway, upgrades to key regional trunk roads, and the modernisation of border posts to facilitate seamless movement of people and goods.
Beitbridge, at the border with South Africa, is one of the most important gateways in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Makumbe commended Mozambique for ratifying the African Road Safety Charter. The charter is hailed as Africa’s first legally binding continental road safety framework.
Makumbe encouraged delegates to pursue practical, coordinated solutions to address challenges affecting regional transport systems and to strengthen cooperation in support of regional integration, trade and sustainable economic development.
Bright Kumwembe, Malawi Secretary for Transport and Public Works, welcomed the meeting in Zimbabwe as a milestone in strengthening regional transport cooperation.
“Growing regional trade and increasingly interconnected supply chains require faster border clearances, safer transport systems and more efficient logistics services,” Kumwembe said.
– CAJ News