The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to revitalize its public rail transit system, starting with a complete overhaul of the line connecting the capital, Kinshasa, to the N’Djili International Airport.
This ambitious project is a collaboration between Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and sustainable mobility company Alstom, who have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive its development.
Expanding and Modernizing Rail Infrastructure
The MetroKin rail project, announced during DRC President Félix Tshisekedi’s visit to France, is a continuation of AFC’s agreement with Trans Connexion Congo (TCC) to create a comprehensive mass transit system spanning over 300km of railroad in Kinshasa.
The project will be implemented in four phases, beginning with the upgrade of the 25km stretch between Kinshasa’s central station and N’Djili International Airport.
Addressing Kinshasa’s Transport Challenges
Kinshasa, one of Africa’s most populous cities with approximately 17 million residents, faces significant transportation infrastructure challenges. The current system meets less than half of the daily demand, leading to severe traffic congestion that affects millions of people.
The MetroKin Rail project aims to improve connectivity and reduce emissions
The MetroKin project aims to address these challenges by expanding and modernizing the existing rail network. This will improve connectivity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and significantly shorten travel times between the suburbs and the city center. The project is expected to bring much-needed relief to residents and visitors who have long complained about the daily gridlock in Kinshasa.
Investment and Partnership for Sustainable Mobility
AFC has committed an initial investment of $3 million to advance the project development phase. As the mandated lead arranger, AFC is spearheading the project while Alstom, with its expertise in urban train systems and regional projects across Africa, will serve as a strategic industrial partner.
In February, residents in a section of Kinshasa known as Université-Kikwit avenues demanded an end to the daily traffic jams that plague their lives. Similarly, a March article on medium.com by Vanny Mwamba painted a stark picture of Kinshasa’s “cadaveric rigidity,” describing how the city’s roads are choked with vehicles, impeding movement and progress.
The MetroKin Rail Will Reshape the Transport Landscape
The MetroKin project, however, promises to “reshape Kinshasa’s economic landscape, create numerous jobs, and transform lives,” according to Amadou Wadda, Senior Director of Project Development & Technical Solutions at AFC. Bernard Peille, Managing Director of Alstom for Africa, echoes this sentiment, stating that the company aims to contribute to the city’s development by leveraging its global expertise and supporting citizens’ mobility needs.
With AFC targeting the end of 2024 for the successful completion of the development phase, the MetroKin rail project represents a significant step towards alleviating Kinshasa’s traffic woes and improving the quality of life for its residents.