The Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, emphasized on Wednesday, November 12, in Maputo, the importance of investing in the rehabilitation and maintenance of rural roads as a key element for connecting productive agricultural areas to major urban markets — thereby facilitating the flow of agricultural products and stimulating the rural economy, according to the Lusa news agency.
“This is also an opportunity to discuss strategies that address the specific needs of our roads, particularly rural ones which, despite lower traffic volumes, are vital for linking productive agricultural zones to the main urban markets,” said the minister during the opening of an international seminar on the road sector, held in the capital.
Matlombe called for the implementation of road programs focused on the accelerated development of rural areas, stressing that improving access roads will help integrate agriculture, industry, and tourism, thereby increasing the competitiveness of local value chains.
“We need innovative and low-cost solutions that ensure a functional and resilient road network — one capable of responding to the challenges of climate change and supporting inclusive economic growth,” he added.
The seminar, taking place in Maputo, brings together experts from 128 countries and is co-organized by the National Roads Administration (ANE), the Road Fund, the World Road Association, and the World Bank. The event aims to identify technical and financial solutions to make road infrastructure more resilient to the impacts of climate change and to promote sustainable road asset management.
According to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the meeting includes discussions on public policies for resilient infrastructure in Africa, cost-benefit assessments of road resilience, planning and financing sustainable solutions, as well as case studies and lessons learned on climate adaptation and sustainable development.
During his speech, Matlombe recalled that Mozambique has about 31,000 kilometers of classified roads, of which only 27% are paved.
“This reality highlights the vulnerability of our road network and reinforces the need for technical and financial solutions that can expand coverage and ensure regular maintenance,” the minister stressed.
With this appeal, the Transport and Logistics Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to prioritizing strategic investments in the road sector, recognizing the crucial role of rural roads in territorial integration, poverty reduction, and the promotion of sustainable economic development.
