Walvis Bay’s regional trade role is expected to grow further following Zambia’s launch of the Western Corridor Transformation Project, a major Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) that will establish the fastest route between Zambia and the Namibian port.
The multi-billion-kwacha project, led by Western Corridor Limited (WCL), was launched at a groundbreaking ceremony in Kasempa by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
The initiative will upgrade the 371-kilometre Mutanda–Kaoma road to a modern bituminous-standard corridor, directly linking Zambia’s western regions to Walvis Bay.
Hichilema said the corridor would transform Zambia’s connectivity with global markets by improving the movement of goods through Namibia.
“This road means business, business to move goods from Zambia to the world through the port of Walvis Bay, and from the world, through Walvis Bay, back to Zambia,” he said.
“Infrastructure, roads in particular, open up investment. From Mutanda to Kasempa, Kaoma to Mongu, Senanga to Sesheke up to Katima Mulilo; this will be the fastest route to Walvis Bay.”
He added that, since independence, the upgraded route would for the first time allow Kasempa residents to travel shorter distances to Lusaka via Kaoma and Mumbwa.
The project is being implemented through WCL, a Special Purpose Vehicle formed by BeefCo Limited and First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Limited. Works include construction of major bridges over the Lalafuta and Luena rivers, selected urban improvements in Kasempa and Kaoma, and upgrades to enhance safety and travel times.
According to officials, the corridor is expected to stimulate agriculture, unlock mining potential, expand market access and grow cargo volumes through Walvis Bay, strengthening the port’s role as a regional gateway.
WCL CEO Buks Jansen Van Rensburg stressed the importance of locally driven development and committed to delivering a high-quality strategic transport link.
FQM Country Manager Godwin Beene said the mining industry relied heavily on efficient logistics networks, noting that the new corridor would connect Zambia’s production centres to markets and opportunities.
“Over the past decade, First Quantum Minerals has invested in road infrastructure within Solwezi and Kalumbila. These projects, like this one, were designed to improve accessibility, enhance safety, and stimulate local enterprise. The Mutanda–Kaoma Road builds upon that legacy; demonstrating how responsible private investment can meaningfully complement public infrastructure priorities,” he said.
