The Mozambique Bridge Transaction involves the construction of a new 1.8-kilometer bridge over the Licungo River near Mocuba, funded under the U.S. $500 million Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact II.

Project Overview

The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) Mozambique plans to launch the tender for the design and construction of the new bridge in early 2026. This bridge is part of the Rural Connectivity and Transport (CTR) project, one of three major initiatives under the U.S. $500 million Compact II, alongside coastal resilience and agricultural reform programs . The bridge will be located about five kilometers downstream from the existing Licungo River bridge, which has exceeded its lifespan and suffered flood damage multiple times since its construction in the 1940s .

Scope and Infrastructure

The project includes:

• A 1.8-kilometer-long bridge over the Licungo River
• 16 kilometers of new access roads connecting the bridge to National Road 1 (N1)
• A bypass around Mocuba city to improve traffic flow and heavy truck access The new infrastructure aims to enhance mobility, strengthen the transport network in central Mozambique, and provide a reliable crossing for heavy vehicles during floods .

Funding and Stakeholders

• Total U.S. MCC funding: $500 million
• CTR allocation: $310.5 million, including $201 million for the bridge and Mocuba bypass
• Mozambican government contribution: $37.5 million (approx. 2.4 billion meticais),
• Implementing agency: Millennium Challenge Account Mozambique
• Oversight: Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a U.S. government foreign assistance agency The MCC Compact II was signed on September 20, 2023, marking the second cooperation agreement between Mozambique and the MCC since 2007 .

Tender and Construction Process

The MCA Mozambique has issued a pre-announcement for the tender, which will cover both the design and construction phases. The tender process is expected to attract international contractors, particularly U.S. companies experienced in infrastructure projects, due to their competitive technologies, management, and quality standards . Additionally, there will be a Request for Proposal (RFP) for engineering supervision and construction monitoring to ensure project quality and compliance .

Strategic Importance

The bridge is critical for:

• Reducing congestion on the existing Licungo River bridge
• Ensuring safe passage for heavy trucks during floods
• Improving rural connectivity and supporting economic growth in Zambézia Province
• Facilitating trade and agricultural transport along National Road 1 This project represents a significant U.S.-Mozambique partnership aimed at infrastructure development, poverty reduction, and climate-resilient transport solutions.