The feasibility studies on the second phase of the Kazungula one-stop border post have started after the leaders of Botswana and Zambia agreed to include Zimbabwe into the project.
This was revealed by Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza in a recent interview with The Sunday Mail. He said:
There was a technical team from the Ministry (of Transport and Infrastructure Development) which went to look at the integration of Zimbabwe into the existing program.
Then the Heads of States (of Botswana and Zambia) agreed that the two nations incorporate Zimbabwe into the project. After that, a feasibility study had to be carried out. That is what is in the process of being completed.
When we were brought into the programme. There was then need for a relook at the design so that it can include all the stakeholders.
They have already started so we want to quickly get this program done as soon as possible. Costs are going to be apportioned equally.
Under the project, a 900-metre long bridge is expected to be constructed at a cost of US$253 and set for completion next year.
When completed, the project is expected to boost trade and economic activities in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.