Connecting Kikwit and Idiofa: New Asphalt Road Project Underway
The city of Kikwit and the territory of Idiofa in the Kwilu province are on the verge of being connected by a new asphalt road. The RN20, which will serve as the link between the two locations, is currently undergoing significant modernization efforts as part of the Sino-Congolese partnership. This project spans a distance of 70 kilometers. The first section of nearly 3 kilometers has already been paved, starting at the intersection of RN1 and RN20 in the village of Ingundi. This pilot phase, completed in just two months by a Chinese company, also includes sanitation work over 2 kilometers at the entrance of Idiofa to ensure the infrastructure’s durability.
Notable Traffic Improvement
With this newly paved section, traffic has already seen a significant improvement, much to the delight of transporters and motorcycle taxi drivers. Previously, the road’s deplorable condition led to vehicles getting stuck and frequent breakdowns. Now, travel is much smoother. “Before, it was a real nightmare. Vehicles would get bogged down, and breakdowns were common due to the road’s terrible state. Today, we can easily move around. If the work continues, it will be a great success for the president,” shared a heavy-duty driver.
Financial Support for Future Work
According to Engineer Daniel Ndombe, the provincial director of the Congolese Agency for Major Works (ACGT), $24 million has been allocated for the project’s continuation after the festive period. “The president’s promise was to connect Kikwit to Idiofa with an asphalt road. A few months later, we see that vision taking shape. We have built a double-layer asphalt road from the intersection of RN1 and RN20. Platforms are still being cleared to allow for a progressive advancement, phase by phase, all the way to the city of Idiofa,” he explained.
Economic Boost for the Local Community
The modernization of RN20 holds significant importance for the regional economy. This road serves as a crucial route for agricultural product transportation. Its rehabilitation will help open up the region and enhance commercial exchanges. “The residents of Idiofa will be able to transport their agricultural products more easily. Those in Kikwit and Kinshasa will have access to quality products. This project is the result of the government’s determination, under the leadership of our supervisory minister,” highlighted Daniel Ndombe.
In conclusion, the completion of these works will be a breath of fresh air for the vast territory of Idiofa, the largest in the Kwilu province. The RN20 will be a significant entry and exit point for residents who have navigated perilous roads for decades. With $28.51 million already spent on these efforts, including funding for sanitation structures, test paving, and future work, the project is well underway to transform the region’s connectivity and economic prospects.