(Ecofin Agency) - As part of its strategy to boost trade with neighboring Mauritania, the government of Mali has mobilized CFA17.54 billion, the equivalent of €26.70 million, for the construction and asphalting of the Kwala-Mourdiah-Nara road (section 2 Kaloumba-Nara).

The draft decree approving the project contract was passed on January 15 during the Council of Ministers and the winning bidder is the company GREEN LINE. Work is expected to last 18 months (including wet seasons).

Once completed, the 54.05 km road will significantly ease transport for people and goods on the Bamako-Nouakchott corridor and promote Mali's economy. Mali and Mauritania share a common border of over 2,000 km in four regions: Kayes, Koulikoro, Segou, and Timbuktu.

In addition to improving the road network, the two countries have been working for years to address the difficulties associated with escorting transporters and the large number of checkpoints. Barriers to trade have raised transport cost and travel time.

Romuald Ngueyap