The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Congo plan to launch construction of a road-and-rail bridge linking their capitals, Kinshasa and Brazzaville, in June 2027, following an agreement on the project’s implementation schedule.

On October 9, officials from both countries signed an agreement with Africa50, an infrastructure investment platform, to advance the project. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi subsequently met a delegation from the Republic of Congo led by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Jacques Bouya to discuss progress and the next steps. DRC Infrastructure and Public Works Minister John Banza Lunda confirmed the planned construction launch.

The planned 1.575-kilometer toll bridge will cross the Congo River and include a railway track, two road lanes, sidewalks and border-control facilities. Africa50 will lead project development and structure the public-private partnership, while the African Development Bank is expected to provide debt financing. The project’s estimated cost exceeds $800 million.

Once completed, the bridge is expected to improve transport links between the two capitals, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and strengthen cross-border trade. The project remains in the preparation and procurement phase, with further steps required before construction can begin.