Trade Project to Boost Regional Integration Along African Trade Corridors
The initiative comes as African nations seek to boost intra-continental trade and reduce dependence on imports from outside the region.
MPONELA, Malawi — A major trade initiative aims to reduce costs and promote regional integration along key African trade routes, officials said Friday, writes Wendi Mkandawire.
Hastings Ngoma, Project Manager of the Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project (SATCP), outlined plans to improve infrastructure and market access in Malawi and Mozambique during a meeting in Mponela in Dowa.
"The infrastructure development spanning 11 districts will not only bolster crucial value chains but also facilitate increased cross-border trade in commodities such as pigeon peas, soybeans, and sweet potatoes," Ngoma said at a validation meeting for a pre-feasibility report on last-mile infrastructure.
The project focuses on the Nacala and Beira Corridors, two major trade routes connecting landlocked Malawi to Indian Ocean ports in Mozambique.
Clement Phanganga, Director of Industry, emphasized the project's focus on climate-resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding unforeseen challenges, though he did not provide specific details.
The initiative comes as African nations seek to boost intra-continental trade and reduce dependence on imports from outside the region.
Improved infrastructure and reduced trade barriers are seen as keys to unlocking economic growth across southern Africa.