In developing countries, research and development (R&D) in road technology has often been neglected in favor of the institutional and funding aspects of road sector reform. In the African context, where low-traffic-volume roads (LTVRs) play a key role, central to the reform efforts is the sustainability of existing road networks. Positive outcomes have already emerged from these efforts, mostly for the trunk payed networks. However, results have so far been mixed for the unpaved network, whose conditions continue to deteriorate. Mozambique and Uganda are no exception to this trend. Aware of this situation, both governments are implementing, with support from the World Bank, major road rehabilitation programs while searching for appropriate low-cost technologies for LTVRs. At a premium, there are the innovative pavement technologies (IPTs) for sealed roads, which can reduce the capital costs while decreasing the maintenance and rehabilitation burden. If these efforts are successful, LTVRs could be economically sealed at lower traffic levels than was hitherto possible. The Mozambique and Uganda road administrations are using distinct approaches to R&D. Whereas Mozambique has set up a program of trial sections, Uganda is developing pilot demonstration projects to select IPTs. The focus here is on management of the R&D process, on quality enhancement for successful innovation, and on the need for the development of specifications and related methods of construction using nonconventional materials for stabilization and surfacing of low-traffic roads.
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