DRC and Republic of Congo Sign Memorandum with Africa50 on Kinshasa–Brazzaville Road–Rail Bridge Development

The memorandum of understanding with Africa50 advances the proposed Kinshasa–Brazzaville road–rail bridge through its development stage, with both governments now targeting June 2027 for the launch of works. For the railway sector, the project represents a proposed cross-border rail connection between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo, alongside the planned road infrastructure.

The bridge is intended to facilitate trade and improve connectivity between the two capitals, supporting wider regional economic integration. Its development is particularly relevant to transport operators, infrastructure contractors and investors monitoring cross-border transport projects, with the next stated milestone being the planned launch of works by the two heads of state in June 2027.

• The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo have signed a memorandum of understanding with Africa50 for the development of the Kinshasa–Brazzaville road–rail bridge.
• The proposed bridge will provide a road and rail connection between the two capital cities.
• Africa50 is participating as an infrastructure investment and development partner.
• DRC Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works John Banza Lunda announced that the official launch of works is scheduled for June 2027.
• The project aims to improve cross-border connectivity, facilitate trade and strengthen sub-regional economic integration.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo have taken a decisive step in advancing the project to build a road-rail bridge linking their two capitals, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding on development of the project with Africa50, an infrastructure investment platform. The ceremony took place in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Jean-Pierre Bemba; Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works John Banza Lunda; Republic of the Congo Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Coordination of Development Infrastructure and Land Use Planning Jean-Jacques Bouya; and Africa50 Chief Executive Officer Alain Ebobissé.

On the occasion, Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works John Banza Lunda announced the official launch of works in June 2027, in line with the established timetable. “We have a very precise timetable. And in June 2027, the works will be launched by the two heads of state. So today was an essential step,” he said.

The project aims to strengthen connectivity between Kinshasa and Brazzaville, facilitate trade and consolidate sub-regional economic integration.