Malawian president hails Chinese contractor for "outstanding" project

LILONGWE, May 21 (Xinhua) -- China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has been recognized by the government of Malawi for an "outstanding" road project in the southeastern African country.

Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera awarded the contractor a trophy on Tuesday during the commemoration of National Construction Day held in the national capital of Lilongwe.

CCECC's project, featuring the construction of a 4.2-km Kenyatta Road linking Lilongwe Old Town to Lilongwe City Center, stood out among many nominated projects.

The new six-lane road, which is nearly complete, has reduced travel time from the city center to the old town from about an hour to about 10 minutes during peak hours.

Speaking at the National Construction Day celebrations, Chakwera praised several construction projects implemented during his term, including those undertaken by Chinese contractors.

The Malawian government also recognized local veteran architects for their outstanding contributions to the country's construction industry.

Meanwhile, CCECC is constructing the Kaphatenga-Dwangwa (M005) road, reconstructing it to a bituminous standard with an asphaltic concrete surface. The road is part of the lakeshore road on the coastal plain between Lake Malawi and the plateau to the west.