New eight-lane boulevard in Kinshasa to ease congestion
Kinshasa welcomes new eight-lane Étienne Tshisekedi boulevard
The capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is set to gain a major infrastructure boost with the construction of a new eight-lane boulevard named after the late Étienne Tshisekedi. The 2.02-kilometer arterial road, designed to enhance traffic flow in a congested part of Kinshasa, will be built by China Railway 20th Bureau Group over a 12-month period. The project scope includes a 750-meter ramp, drainage systems, bridges, culverts, and modern street lighting.
- Society
President Félix Tshisekedi officially inaugurated construction on the Étienne Tshisekedi boulevard in Kinshasa, marking the start of a critical infrastructure project aimed at alleviating chronic traffic congestion. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka and Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba. The new roadway will span 2,020 meters with eight lanes—four in each direction—alongside a 750-meter dual-lane ramp. Additional components include comprehensive drainage networks, multiple bridges and culverts, and a full lighting system. Construction is scheduled for completion within twelve months.
China Railway 20th Bureau Group embarks on first public project in DRC
China Railway 20th Bureau Group (CR20), a leading Chinese engineering firm, has been awarded the contract to deliver the boulevard. Zhang Guoxu, General Manager of China Railway 20th Bureau Group Angola International Company, confirmed that this marks CR20’s inaugural public works project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He emphasized the company’s commitment to meeting strict technical standards, maintaining high-quality construction, and minimizing environmental impact throughout the project lifecycle. Governor Daniel Bumba underscored the importance of adhering to contractual timelines and technical specifications, expressing confidence that the completed infrastructure will significantly improve mobility in the targeted area.
Before the groundbreaking, President Tshisekedi reviewed detailed plans for the boulevard, including its alignment, proposed amenities, and key structural elements. Visual renderings of the finished road were also presented. The project’s primary goal is to expand traffic capacity and streamline movement across one of Kinshasa’s most heavily trafficked corridors. Once operational, the Étienne Tshisekedi boulevard is expected to integrate seamlessly with the existing road network, helping to relieve pressure on several overburdened routes. Success will hinge on diligent project execution, strict adherence to the timeline, and effective coordination with other transportation arteries in the city.
