On March 1, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña and FONPLATA Executive President Luciana Botafogo inspected the works on National Route PY17, Niños Mártires de Acosta Ñu, one of the most significant infrastructure projects in the northern region of the country, set to directly benefit more than 150,000 residents.

The visit took place in the district of Zanja Pytá, in the department of Amambay, where authorities toured several construction fronts along this strategic corridor. Once completed, the 221-kilometer route will connect Pedro Juan Caballero, Zanja Pytá, Capitán Bado, Itanará, and Ypejhú, strengthening integration between the departments of Amambay and Canindeyú.

A substantial portion of the road runs along the border with Brazil, helping consolidate a cross-border logistics and production corridor that will boost trade and regional exchange.

“For FONPLATA, the Bank for Integration, it is extremely important to support projects of this nature. It is a pleasure to see the progress being made, because it will help connect production chains and integrate this region with MERCOSUR and Latin America,” said Executive President Luciana Botafogo during the tour.

PY17 will generate direct impacts in four key areas:

· Connectivity, improving links between rural communities, municipalities, and border cities.

· Road safety, facilitating safer mobility for people, public transportation, and freight.

· Regional competitiveness, by streamlining the export of agricultural, livestock, and commercial products.

· Territorial inclusion, integrating historically neglected areas in the northern region.

Financed by FONPLATA — Development Bank, the project is being executed in four sections and includes paving and maintenance under service-level standards. Current works include clearing and grading the right-of-way, installing culverts, earthworks and embankment construction, laying a cement-stabilized subbase and granular base, and conducting technical tests to ensure the strength and durability of the future roadway.

The inspection was also attended by the Minister of Public Works and Communications Claudia Centurión; the Deputy Minister of Public Works Hugo Arce; the Governor of Amambay Juan Acosta; local authorities; representatives of the contractor; Ministry technical staff; and residents from nearby communities.

Held on a date of great significance for Paraguay (Heroes’ Day), the visit symbolized the effective coordination between the National Government, subnational governments, and FONPLATA as a strategic partner for regional development.

Route PY17 is a decisive step toward a more connected, more competitive future, expanding opportunities for communities across northern Paraguay.

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02/03/2026