Bridges are vital infrastructural marvels that simplify commuting and boost trade across borders. Africa boasts some remarkable bridges that symbolize engineering feats and cultural significance. Here are the ten longest bridges on the continent:

1. 6th October Bridge (20.5 km)

The 6th October Bridge, located in Cairo, Egypt, is the longest bridge in Africa. Its construction spanned nearly three decades, concluding in 1996. This highway crosses the Nile River and connects Downtown Cairo to other major highways, including routes leading to Cairo International Airport. The bridge’s name commemorates the Egyptian military’s Suez Canal crossing during the 1973 war.

2. Third Mainland Bridge (11.8 km)

Before the completion of the 6th October Bridge, Lagos, Nigeria’s Third Mainland Bridge held the title of Africa’s longest bridge. Completed in 1990, it connects Lagos Mainland to Lagos Island, linking areas like Oworonshoki and the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. It remains one of the busiest bridges in Africa.

3. Suez Canal Bridge (3.9 km)

Also known as the “Friendship Bridge,” this structure connects Africa and Asia over the Suez Canal in Egypt. A collaboration between the Japanese and Egyptian governments, it was inaugurated in 2001 to develop the surrounding areas of the canal.

4. Mozambique Island Bridge (3.8 km)

This bridge connects the historic Island of Mozambique to mainland Mozambique over the Indian Ocean. Originally opened in 1962, it has undergone numerous reconstructions to maintain its functionality and historic significance.

5. Dona Ana Bridge (3.7 km)

Stretching across the Zambezi River, the Dona Ana Bridge connects Vila de Sena and Mutarara in Mozambique. Built as an alternative to unreliable routes, it plays a critical role in regional transportation.

6. Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge (2.37 km)

Named after former Mozambican president Armando Emilio Guebuza, this bridge connects southern Mozambique to Maputo. It serves as a critical link for trade and travel within the region.

7. Qasr Al-Nil Bridge (1.93 km)

Built in 1931, the Qasr Al-Nil Bridge spans the Nile River in Cairo, connecting Tahrir Square to Zamalek Island. Besides its practical use, it holds cultural significance, with iconic bronze lion statues guarding its entrances.

8. Wouri Bridge (1.8 km)

Situated in Cameroon, the Wouri Bridge crosses the Wouri River, facilitating transportation and trade within the country. Its periodic rehabilitations ensure its durability and significance in regional commerce.

9. Mkapa Bridge (970 meters)

Named after Tanzania’s former president Benjamin Mkapa, this bridge crosses the Rufiji River and connects Tanzania’s southern regions to other parts of the country. It was completed in 2003 and remains vital to Tanzania’s infrastructure.

10. Katima Mulilo Bridge (900 meters)

This bridge facilitates trade across south-central Africa by linking Namibia’s Trans-Caprivi Highway to Zambia’s road network. It is a vital route for goods travelling between the region and the Atlantic Ocean.

These bridges are testaments to Africa’s growing infrastructural development and their crucial roles in connecting people, cities, and economies.

ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE