The construction of the new Rusumo International Bridge and One-Stop Border Post facilities are rolling out, with the works on the former commencing last Tuesday.

Rusumo International Bridge, under construction across the Akagera River will replace the old one built 40 years ago to link Rwanda and Tanzania. 

The project is expected to have a positive impact on the economic development of both nations, by enhancing regional integration and cross-border trade.

The project, funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency, will cover the construction of the new dual carriage bridge, a two-kilometre road connecting two customs offices as well as equipping both sites with necessary tools and suitable parking.

Japan provided $24.4 million (about Rwf16 billion) grant for the construction of Rusumo International Bridge.

Eng. Honoré Munyanshongore, of Rwanda Transport Development Agency, said the new 80-metre-width bridge will make the permanent use of two lanes possible.

Munyanshongore said the bridge would increase the axle load restriction from the present eight tonnes to 20 tonnes and the speed limit from the present five kilometres per hour to 30 kilometres per hour.

"The new facility is installed with capacity to carry 180 tonnes. The old one was installed with capacity to carry 32 tonnes 40 years ago, although it now carries more than 60 tonnes due to huge transport volumes that increased over the years,” he said.

Border post 

Meanwhile, the construction of One-Border Stop Post has reached final stages, giving the area a complete face-lift.

Munyanshonga said the border post would cope with expected increase of traffic volume in the coming years.

"It will also eliminate the present traffic congestion through the introduction of One-Stop Border Post system that will greatly improve the efficiency of cargo transportation and eventually increase the physical distribution volume and reduce transportation costs,” he said.

Protais Murayire, the mayor of Kirehe, was upbeat, saying the construction of the border post was timely.

"These trucks you see here would be parked in Nyakarambi town where there is no space for huge traffic. Managing the traffic was a big burden to us but now the place is becoming beautiful with good road network and businesses,” he said.

The construction activities of Rusumo One-Stop Border Post is set to be completed by November next year.