Kinshasa welcomes new eight-lane boulevard Étienne Tshisekedi

The capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is set to gain a major infrastructure boost with the construction of the new eight-lane boulevard Étienne Tshisekedi. The project, commissioned by President Félix Tshisekedi, spans 2.02 kilometers and aims to significantly improve traffic flow in a key area of Kinshasa. The contract for this ambitious initiative has been awarded to China Railway 20th Bureau Group (CR20), marking the company’s first public works project in the DRC.

The construction timeline is set for twelve months, during which the project will include not only the main roadway but also a 750-meter ramp, drainage systems, bridges, culverts, and modern street lighting. These additions are designed to ensure the infrastructure is both functional and sustainable for years to come.

First stone laid to launch the project

The groundbreaking ceremony for the boulevard Étienne Tshisekedi took place in Kinshasa, with President Félix Tshisekedi officiating the event. The ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka and Kinshasa’s governor, Daniel Bumba. The project’s scope was presented in detail, highlighting the 2,020-meter-long main road divided into eight lanes—four in each direction—along with the additional ramp and supporting structures.

CR20’s debut in public infrastructure in the DRC

China Railway 20th Bureau Group (CR20) is at the helm of this transformative project. Zhang Guoxu, CEO of China Railway 20th Bureau Group Angola International Company, emphasized the company’s commitment to meeting technical standards and project deadlines. He also underscored the importance of environmental management and quality assurance throughout the construction process. Governor Daniel Bumba echoed these priorities, stressing the need for strict adherence to the project’s specifications and timelines to ensure timely completion.

President Tshisekedi reviewed detailed plans of the boulevard’s layout, including visual representations of the proposed infrastructure. The primary goal is to alleviate chronic traffic congestion in Kinshasa by expanding road capacity and improving connectivity. Once completed, the boulevard Étienne Tshisekedi will integrate seamlessly into the city’s existing network, providing much-needed relief to saturated routes. Its success will depend on the quality of execution, timely delivery, and effective integration with other major roads in the capital.