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Economic development

Renovated National Road 1 Boosts Economic Activity in Democratic Republic of Congo

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The renovation of National Road 1 between Kinshasa, Kwango, and Kwilu has significantly improved economic activity in the south-west of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The road, which connects Kinshasa to the provinces of Kwango and Kwilu, has facilitated interprovincial trade and created momentum for regional economic integration. The project, financed by the African Development Fund at $70.2 million, has not only improved transport conditions but also had a positive impact on the daily lives of communities and economic activity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The renovation of National Road 1 has reduced travel times between Kinshasa and Kikwit from several weeks to just six hours, saving hauliers time, fuel, and money on spare parts.
  • The improved road quality has led to a significant reduction in the number of accidents, making travel safer for hauliers and road users.
  • The project has also had a positive impact on the daily lives of communities, with access to drinking water, health centers, refurbished rural markets, upgraded agricultural tracks, and equipped boreholes in several villages.
  • Schools, such as the Don Bosco Institute in Kenge, have benefited from the project with the installation of drinking water boreholes and standpipes, making it easier for students to access water.
  • The project has created opportunities for local entrepreneurs, with increased access to markets and customers, leading to improved living standards.
  • The African Development Fund has invested $70.2 million in the project, making it a significant infrastructure initiative for the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Statistics:

  • The 622-kilometer section of RN1 between Kinshasa, N'Djili, and Batshamba was renovated at a cost of $70.2 million.
  • The project has reduced travel times between Kinshasa and Kikwit to just 6 hours.
  • The number of accidents on the road has decreased since the renovation.
  • The project has improved access to drinking water for communities along the road.
  • The Don Bosco Institute in Kenge now has a drinking water borehole with a standpipe.
  • The project has created opportunities for local entrepreneurs, improving living standards.

Sources:

  • M2 PRESSWIRE-August 1, 2025-: The renovated National Road 1 between Kinshasa, Kwango and Kwilu is boosting economic activity in the south-west of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • M2 COMMUNICATIONS RDATE:01082025 * This improvement greatly facilitates interprovincial trade and creates momentum for regional economic integration
  • African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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