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Background
TRANSFORMATION

TRANSFORMATION OF THE WESTERN CORRIDOR

Connecting Zambia's Rich Natural Resources to the Rest of the World

OUR KEY STATS

KILOMETRES
371
TOTAL ROAD LENGTH
INVESTMENT
$8M+
ALREADY INVESTED
START OF CONSTRUCTION
2025
TARGET YEAR
DISTRICTS
4
COMMUNITIES BENEFITING
INFRASTRUCTURE EXCELLENCE

INFRASTRUCTURE EXCELLENCE

The Western Corridor Project represents a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at upgrading the 371 km Mutanda to Kaoma Road to international bituminous standards. Delivered under a 25-year Public-Private Partnership concession, the project includes the construction of three toll plazas, two weighbridges, upgraded bridges, and 20 km of urban roads, forming a critical trade artery between Zambia’s mineral-rich regions and the West Coast of Africa. With a phased pavement design, climate-resilient drainage systems, and electronic tolling infrastructure, the project is engineered for long-term durability, safety, and efficiency. It is strategically aligned with Zambia’s national infrastructure and economic development goals, and is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity, reduce transport costs, and support sustainable growth across the SADC region.

REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY

REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY

The Western Corridor Project is a strategic infrastructure initiative that significantly enhances regional connectivity by linking Zambia’s mineral-rich Copperbelt and North-Western Provinces with the West Coast of Africa via Walvis Bay in Namibia. By upgrading the 371 km Mutanda to Kaoma Road and integrating it with key trade routes such as the Lumwana–Kambimba and Kipushi–Solwezi corridors, the project creates a seamless transport network that bypasses congested urban centres and reduces travel distances by up to 400 km for cross-border freight. This improved corridor facilitates efficient trade flows between Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Botswana, and Namibia, positioning Zambia as a pivotal logistics hub in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Empowering local communities through inclusive development and collaboration. The Western Corridor leadership, in partnership with traditional leaders across four districts, is ensuring that the Mutanda–Kaoma Road benefits every household along its route. Through fair resettlement programs, community engagement, and sustainable economic initiatives, the project is improving livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and building a foundation for long-term growth.

Expert Builders

Upgrading 371 km of the Mutanda to Kaoma Road to international bituminous standards, completing Zambia's Western Corridor.

Regional Impact

Creating a vital link between Zambia's Copperbelt, DRC's mining regions, and the Port of Walvis Bay on Africa's West Coast.

Project Milestones

2018

Maintenance contract initiated

Dec 2024

Concession agreement signed

2025

Start of construction

2028

Projected completion of the highway

Community First

Our comprehensive Resettlement Policy Framework ensures fair treatment and support for all affected communities.

Learn About Our Policy
1

Informed of rights and options

2

Consulted on alternatives

3

Full replacement cost compensation

4

Supported to improve living standards

Barotse Highway background
CONNECTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT

The Western Corridor leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to the successful delivery of the Mutanda–Kaoma Road, a vital link in Zambia’s Barotse Highway network. Through strong collaboration with government and development partners, this project aims to uplift communities, enhance regional trade, and improve access to essential services. The renewed dedication of local leadership reflects a shared vision — to create lasting infrastructure that strengthens economic growth, empowers rural areas, and unites Zambia through reliable connectivity.

CONNECTING ZAMBIA THROUGH GOVERNMENT-LED INFRASTRUCTURE

CONNECTING ZAMBIA THROUGH GOVERNMENT-LED INFRASTRUCTURE

The Government of the Republic of Zambia continues to play a vital role in national development through transformative road projects like the Mutanda Road. This strategic initiative strengthens regional connectivity, supports local trade, and improves access to essential services. By partnering with key stakeholders, the government is ensuring that every community along the route benefits from enhanced mobility and economic opportunity.

Trusted By

Our Partners

Collaborating with industry leaders to deliver exceptional infrastructure solutions

FIRST QUANTUM MINERALS
FIRST QUANTUM MINERALS
BEEFCO
BEEFCO
BHL
BHL
HOTSHEET PROJECT MANAGERS
HOTSHEET PROJECT MANAGERS
PANGAEA SECURITIES
PANGAEA SECURITIES
HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS KRAMER
HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS KRAMER
MAY AND CO
MAY AND CO
KORRIDOR
KORRIDOR
KONGIWE
KONGIWE
DH Engineering Consultants
DH Engineering Consultants
Brian Colquhoun, Hugh O'Donnell & Partners (BCHOD)
Brian Colquhoun, Hugh O'Donnell & Partners (BCHOD)
Press Release

31st October 2025

President Hakainde Launches Landmark Western Corridor Transformation Project

Multi-faceted project set to unlock economic potential and create job opportunities in Zambia through Public-Private-Partnership

371km
Road Infrastructure
Mutanda-Kasempa-Kaoma Road upgrade to bituminous standard
PPP
Partnership Model
Public-Private Partnership with BeefCo & FQM Limited
20%
Local Participation
Reserved for Zambian contractors and suppliers
"This road means business, business to move goods from Zambia to the world through the port of Walvis Bay, and from the world, through Walvis Bay, back to Zambia."
— His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema

For Media Inquiries:

Kasole Sakavuyi - Media Liaison

socialmedia@manic.co.zm · +260 974 607 451