By Thom Ali

Lilongwe,  March 11, Mana: A delegation from the governments of Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia has gathered in Lilongwe from March 10^th to 14^th, 2025, for the 9^th Tripartite Meeting of the NACALA Development Corridor Management Committee to discuss ongoing activities related to the development of the NACALA Corridor.

Speaking during the official opening of the meeting , Secretary for Ministry of Transport, Eng. David Mzandu stressed that the meeting will among others review progres of the project,  provide an opportunity for delegates to consolidate collective efforts and forge a shared vision for the future.

"By adressing transport costs, eliminating trade barriers, and fostering competitiveness,  we can unlock new markets, and economic opportunities for our member States, both within the region and beyond, through the NACALA Corridor,” Mzandu emphasised.

He further challenged the participants to formulate actionable plans that yield tangible benefits for all member states along the NACALA Corridor.

Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Transport and Logistics for Mozambique, Ambr'osio Adolfo Sitoe, said the government of Mozambique  takes the transport and logistics sector as a priority, because at  national level,  efficient mobility of people and goods is essential.

"Mozambique participates in the  Development of the NACALA project with the responsibility and expectations of consolidating the long awaited bases of the development and expansion of trade and connectivity in the southern region. The ultimate goal is to achieve rapid and safer commercial transaction and transportation of people and goods to and from neighbouring countries,” he said.

Sitoe added that the Mozambique delegation has come to Malawi to, among other things, report on key achievements of the Corridor at this stage, including the operations and potential capabilities, address challenges, and propose improvements for the NACALA ports.

He further commended the World Bank Group for its continued efforts to support southern region governments in making the project viable, financing digital trade,developing ICT systems, strengthening transport infrastructure and improving border management systems among others.

The Word Bank funded project, commenced in the year 2021, and is expected to be completed in 2027, will among others , reduce transport costs and enhance regional trade coordination between the three Nations.