The Roads Fund Administration (RFA) says it is reviewing tollgate designs ahead of the construction of three additional tollgates in the central region, with procurement of contractors expected soon.

RFA spokesperson Masauko Mngwaluko, told Zodiak Friday that the review is necessary to align the project with prevailing economic conditions and updated infrastructure standards.

“We are currently reviewing the tollgate designs, and the Roads Authority will soon start the process of procuring contractors,” said Mngwaluko.

Previously, the Fund indicated that the project would require about K7 billion. However, Mngwaluko says the cost is now being reassessed.

“The initial estimate of around K7 billion is under review due to various economic factors and adjustments in the tollgate designs,” he added.

Nearly two years ago, the RFA announced that land had been identified for the construction of the new tollgates in districts such as Nchinji, Salima, and Kasungu, with other potential sites including Naluva and Chileka.

In his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Peter Mutharika directed that revenue collected from tollgates should be ring-fenced specifically for road maintenance.

Responding to this directive, Mngwaluko said the system is already in place.

“All tollgate revenues are kept in separate bank accounts and are strictly used for the maintenance of the tolled roads,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Road Safety Alert Foundation (ROSAF) Executive Director Joel Jere has welcomed both the construction of new tollgates and the emphasis on safeguarding the funds.

“We support the construction of additional tollgates, but it is equally important to ensure that the revenue collected is protected and used for maintaining major roads,” said Jere.

Malawi currently operates two tollgates at Chingeni and Kalinyeke, which contribute to funding road maintenance across the country.