The Japanese government has handed over the newly constructed Lilongwe Main Bridge and the upgraded M001 road, urging Malawi to protect and maintain the multi-billion-kwacha infrastructure for future generations.

Speaking during the handover ceremony on Thursday, Japan’s Director General for African Affairs, Takao Imafuku, described the project as a symbol of the strong and enduring partnership between Malawi and Japan.

He said the long-term socio-economic benefits of the infrastructure depend on responsible use and proper maintenance.

“Reliable transport infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth and regional connectivity. We urge the people of Malawi and relevant authorities to care for this facility diligently so it can serve many generations,” Imafuku said.

Receiving the project on behalf of the Malawi government, Minister of Transport and Public Works, Jappie Mhango, hailed the bridge and road upgrade -valued at over K22 billion- as a game-changer for Lilongwe and the country.

He said the project will ease congestion, reduce accidents and vehicle costs, and speed up the movement of goods and people.

Mhango also appealed to Malawians to protect the infrastructure from vandalism and theft, stressing that it belongs to the public and must be preserved for national development.

Officials say the upgraded M001 road strengthens Malawi’s North–South corridor and the Nacala corridor, improving access to regional markets and the port of Nacala in Mozambique, and boosting trade and economic activity.

The project stems from the Lilongwe Urban Development Master Plan developed with JICA in 2010, with preparatory surveys conducted between 2017 and 2019.