Japan has committed to extending the dual carriageway from Lilongwe Mosque to Bunda Turn-off along the M1 by 15 kilometres (km), a move expected to ease persistent traffic congestion in the capital city.
Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango disclosed the development yesterday during the handover of the $22 million (about K38 billion) Lilongwe Bridge project, funded by the Japanese Government.
plaque as Chipungu (2ndR)and other officials look on.
| George Singini
The minister said the extension will bring relief to motorists who regularly face heavy traffic between Pa Tank and Bunda Turn-Off in the Capital City.
“I am glad that the Government of Japan has committed to extending the dual carriageway to Bunda Turn-off. This will greatly help to ease traffic congestion. It is always a struggle to navigate this stretch because of traffic jams,” he said.
Mhango added that the newly-completed Lilongwe Bridge will improve connectivity as it sits on the M1, a major route linking Malawi to Tanzania and Mozambique.
“This is an important asset for the country because it is built on the M1, which connects us to the region,” he said.
Japanese Ambassador Naito Yasushi confirmed the planned road extension, citing the two countries’ long-standing cooperation and Japan’s commitment to the Nacala Corridor initiative.
“Because of our long-standing friendship with Malawi and our commitment to promoting the Nacala Corridor initiative, we will continue developing infrastructure to support economic growth, promote industry and jobs and improve people’s lives,” he said.
Following the ceremony, Mhango toured the proposed 15km stretch alongside Japan’International Cooperation Agency director general Takao Imafuku and other officials.
Imafuku said development of the Nacala Corridor remains a priority for Japan’s foreign aid programme.
“We are committed to the development of the Nacala Corridor and the construction of this bridge and roads is the first step in that cooperation. Malawi is part of the corridor, whose development is crucial for southern Africa,” he said.
Construction for the 78-metre five-lane Lilongwe Bridge project began in November 2023 and was opened for traffic on November 6 2025.
