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Maputo is set to move forward with the construction of a new rapid bus system designed to improve public transport, reduce congestion and shorten travel times across the Maputo Metropolitan Area.
The project is valued at $250 million and is financed by the World Bank. Construction will be carried out by the Chinese company CHICO, with completion expected in 2028.
In the first phase, a dedicated central corridor of around 16.5 kilometres will be built, linking downtown Maputo to Praça da Juventude in Magoanine and the Missão Roque roundabout in Zimpeto.
The system will also include around 46 kilometres of direct and feeder routes connecting the main terminals in Maputo, Matola and Marracuene.
According to the Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, the aim is to create a faster, safer and more predictable public transport system.
“We want to improve mobility and accessibility along the main corridors within the Maputo Metropolitan Area, reduce travel time, ease congestion and reduce road accidents,” he said.
Once completed, the new system is expected to carry around 125,000 passengers per day, equivalent to approximately 40 million passengers per year.
During the initial phase of operations, the Government plans to acquire 71 electric buses.
The vehicles are expected to be equipped with electronic ticketing, automatic vehicle location and real-time passenger information systems, including through mobile phones.
The Government also expects the project to help reduce polluting emissions and improve road safety.
According to João Matlombe, the construction and operation of the new system should also generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, with particular emphasis on young people and national companies.
The Maputo Metropolitan Area has around three million residents and accounts for more than 70% of the country’s vehicle fleet, according to Government figures.
Authorities expect the new system to help address mobility problems that affect thousands of passengers every day in Maputo, Matola and Marracuene.
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