Jenda-Edingeni Road phase one to cost K3.9bn

The cost for constructing the first phase of the Jenda-Edingeni Road has jumped to K3.9 billion from K2.3 billion due to changes in the design and construction of the South Rukuru Bridge, it has been established.

Responding to a questionnaire, Roads Authority (RA) spokesperson Portia Kajanga confirmed that construction of the bridge has pushed up the budget for the first phase from K2.3 billion to K3.9 billion.

She said the design of the bridge was changed following a soil investigation report.

However, Kajanga said the delay was necessary as the contractor had to be given time to work on the bridge.

“The initial cost of the project was K2.3 billion but this was without the full cost of the bridge since it was not fully designed. After the final design of the bridge, the cost is now at K3.9 billion.

“The contractor was, therefore, given an extension of time to redesign and build the new bridge which is now much bigger (80 metres) and safer,” Kajanga said.

She also said RA has been in touch with the financiers, Abu-Dhabi Fund for Development, about the second phase.

According to Kajanga, all the necessary documentation, including feasibility reports, cost estimates and government letters have been sent to the funder.

Inkosi ya Makosi M’mbelwa V on Tuesday said the road in question was of great economic importance.

The Jere Ngoni paramount chief said delays in completing phase one of the road were worrying people in the sense that it would affect the start of phase two.

The road is expected to ease mobility and benefit farmers who struggle to transport their produce  to strategic markets in Mzuzu, Zambia and other areas. n