Area 25 Nsungwi-Dzenza Road project launched

Construction of the 3.5-kilometre Area 25-Nsungwi-Dzenza Road has started amid high expectations from communities in the area.

Works on the K1.2 billion road, whose contractor is Mota-Engil, will involve upgrading of the existing earth road to class one bitumen standard with 6.9 metres carriageway and 1.5 metres single sealed shoulders on both sides.

The road starts from Area 49, 50 and Kanengo junction in Lilongwe City and extends westwards passing through Nsungwi Trading Centre up to Dzenza.

Launching the construction works yesterday, Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango said the road will be completed within six months.

“The road has many benefits not only to people of this area, but the whole city because a lot of business people use it. Many people working in town also come from here. We will ensure that it is completed within schedule,”  he said.

The expected benefits of the road include reduced road maintenance costs, vehicle operating and passenger travel costs, improved environmental and health status and job creation.

Last year, some concerned residents of Area 25, including Nsungwi Market vendors, petitioned Lilongwe City Council on the poor status of the road.

Reacting to the launch of the works, James Ziba, an Area 25 Sector 7 resident, urged government to stick to the project’s time frame.

“We have endured dust and mud for years. This project will change our lives,” he said.