Report on a study analysis of upgrading plans/proposals for four Zaire ports under authority of National Transport Office (ONATRA), Zaire

Evaluation covers the period to 5/15/81 and is based on document review, site visits, and interviews with project personnel. In each of the four ports targeted for upgrading -- Panu, Dibaya-Lubwe, Mangai, and Bulungu -- specific improvements were recommended in the original project paper and others were suggested by the Zairian Government"s National Transport Office (ONATRA). Based on this information, the evaluator presents recommendations specific to each port. To handle the estimated 5,600 ton increase in agricultural produce flowing through Panu, a 15m by 8m loading platform with protective works, agent"s quarters and offices, and a generator building must be constructed; and four heavy duty bollards, 140m of fencing, and communications facilities must be installed. At Dibaya-Lubwe, the following construction and modifications are needed: a ramp with a 10% slope and a drainage ditch at the top, four heavy duty bollards, a warehouse, agent"s quarters, public toilets, a generator building with a 25 KVA generator, a guard post, and 480 m of fencing. In addition, communications equipment must be installed to improve dispatching of barges from Kinshasha. At Mangai no improvements are recommended. At Bulungu the evaluators advise against ONATRA"s suggestions, and instead recommend only that two gangways be provided to improve the loading rate. Cost estimates were verified where possible, and the proposed means of procurement of requisite materials reviewed. Problems intrinsic to the nature of combined bid solicitation indicate the necessity of submitting two separate bid solicitations--one for design, the other for construction. Overall responsibility for the program should be delegated to a port construction engineer; during implementation, site supervisors should oversee planning, scheduling, and actual construction.