Africa is home to some remarkable bridges, with several of them standing as impressive examples of engineering and infrastructure development.
These bridges not only improve transportation but also play an important role in connecting regions, facilitating trade, and boosting local economies.
Here are the top 6 longest bridges in Africa, showcasing the continent’s achievements in bridging gaps—both physically and metaphorically.
1. 6th October Bridge, Egypt
The 6th October Bridge, located in Cairo, is the longest bridge in Africa, stretching an impressive 20.5 kilometres.
Completed in 1996, the bridge links Cairo’s east and west sides, easing traffic congestion in one of the busiest cities in Africa.
It’s a vital route for commuters and trade, contributing significantly to the city’s daily flow.
2. Third Mainland Bridge, Nigeria
Nigeria’s Third Mainland Bridge is the longest in the country and the second longest in Africa, spanning 11.8 kilometres across Lagos Lagoon.
Opened in 1990, it connects Lagos Island to the mainland, providing a crucial transport route for one of Africa’s largest urban populations.
The bridge helps to reduce traffic jams and facilitates both local and international trade.
3. Suez Canal Bridge (Al Salam Bridge), Egypt
The Suez Canal Bridge, also known as the Mubarak Peace Bridge, is 3.9 kilometres long and plays a key role in linking Egypt’s mainland with the Sinai Peninsula.
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This cable-stayed bridge, opened in 2001, crosses the Suez Canal and is vital for both transport and regional stability, offering an alternative to the busy Suez Canal crossing.
4. Mozambique Island Bridge, Mozambique
Spanning 3.8 kilometres, the Mozambique Island Bridge connects the mainland to the historic Mozambique Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This bridge, which was completed in 1967, has greatly enhanced accessibility to the island, promoting tourism and connecting local communities.
5. Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge, Mozambique
The Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge is a 3.7-kilometre-long structure that crosses the Zambezi River in Mozambique.
Opened in 2009, the bridge is named after the country’s former president and serves as a key route between the north and south of Mozambique, facilitating trade and travel in the region.
6. Mkapa Bridge, Tanzania
The Mkapa Bridge in Tanzania, at 0.97 kilometres, is one of longest bridges in the Africa.
Completed in 2003, it spans the Rufiji River and serves as a vital transportation link between Tanzania’s southern and central regions.
Named after former president Benjamin Mkapa, it plays a crucial role in connecting remote areas and supporting the movement of goods and people.
