Infrastructure challenges and development programs impact African transport corridors

In Senegal, the city of Kaolack is facing significant logistical and health challenges due to incomplete highway connections. While the Thiadiaye–Kaolack highway has improved national mobility, the lack of functional links to exits toward Sokone, Kahone, Tambacounda, and Koutal has forced heavy freight traffic onto urban and secondary roads. This shift has resulted in damaged roadways, severe traffic congestion, and increased dust and diesel emissions, posing respiratory risks to local populations.

In Madagascar, a new phase of a corridor development and trade facilitation program is planned for 2025–2030. With an investment of approximately $229.47 million, the initiative aims to rehabilitate key routes, such as the Bevoay–Morombe road, and construct infrastructure like the Fiherenana ring-dike to protect Toliara from flooding. The program also includes port enhancements in Nosy Be, Antsiranana, and Vohémar, aiming to reduce heavy vehicle operating costs by 46% by 2026 and strengthen regional trade links, including connections between the ports of Toliara and Beira, Mozambique.