Historically, much of Africa’s infrastructure was designed to move resources outwards rather than connect the continent internally. This route began as a nineteenth-century colonial vision that was never completed and faded after Sudan’s independence. Today, it has been reclaimed and is being developed by African states and institutions such as the African Union.

Linking eleven countries, the highway could eventually reduce travel time across the continent to around five days. Its importance is clear in the context of trade, with intra-African commerce still accounting for only about 15 percent of total trade, far below levels seen in other regions. By improving connectivity, the corridor helps bring markets closer together in practical terms.

Progress is already visible, with Egypt completing its section in 2024 and most of the route now in place. Beyond trade, the highway is also encouraging greater coordination in areas such as customs and border management. In doing so, it is not only moving goods, but also strengthening connections across the continent.