Port logistics company, the Newlyn Group, unveiled the Newlyn PX Bayhead rail terminal on April 4, strategically positioned next to the Port of Durban. This initiative aims to enhance intra-Africa and local trade while fostering investment opportunities. Newlyn CEO, Raj Balmakhun, described the launch as a significant achievement for South Africa, showcasing the synergy between the private sector and the government for national progress. President Cyril Ramaphosa, present at the
Category: Railway News
The Lobito Corridor and its Impact on Regional Growth
The African Development Bank (AfDB) spearheaded a landmark initiative in October 2023 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S., the European Commission, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and the governments of Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to develop the Lobito Corridor. This ambitious project aims to connect the DRC and Zambia’s copper belts to international markets via Angola’s Port of Lobito, positioning southern
Transnet Freight Rail’s North Corridor Achieves Record Weekly Volume
Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR’s) North Corridor achieved a significant milestone by delivering 1.41 million tonnes last week, marking the highest weekly volume for the current financial year. This accomplishment includes transporting 1.18 million tonnes of export coal to the Richards Bay Coal Terminal and operating 11 chrome trains. Surpassing the previous record of 1.40 million tonnes, this achievement not only highlights the corridor’s exceptional performance but also sets a new
US Backs Lobito Corridor Railway with Record Investment
In February of this year, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced groundbreaking financing to bolster the Lobito Corridor—a transformative 1,300-km railway linking Angola’s Port of Lobito with southern DRC and northwestern Zambia. This initiative, supported by a consortium including the European Commission, African Development Bank, and Africa Finance Corporation, has already secured nearly $1 billion, marking the largest joint investment by the U.S. and EU in Africa in
4 Railway Projects to Watch in West Africa
With West Africa’s population surpassing 450 million and its vast oil, gas and critical mineral resources being put into production, the region has experienced steady economic growth at an average annual rate of 6% over the last decade. Projected infrastructure needs indicate a necessary annual investment of approximately $180 billion by 2025. Vital to this development are ongoing railway projects aimed at supporting the region’s economic growth, facilitating the transport
Benguela Business Leaders Urged to Grasp Opportunities in Lobito Corridor and Refinery
Governor Luís Nunes of Benguela province rallied local entrepreneurs to seize the potential presented by the Corridor and Refinery in Lobito. Speaking at the inauguration of Aliança Empresarial’s new headquarters, Nunes emphasized the critical role of unity among business leaders. With Aliança Empresarial expanding its membership by four, including notable organizations like the Angola Industrial Association (AIA) and the League of Businessmen and Executives of Angola – PRESTIGIO, the province
Coal port development in Mozambique back on track
Thai Moçambique Logistica (TML) is reviving its initiative to construct a coal port in Macuse, Mozambique, near the Zambezi River mouth. Despite the waning interest in Mozambique’s coal industry, TML is committed to proceeding with its long-term investment, having secured US$500 million for the project. Construction is slated to begin in mid-2024 on a 5.3 square kilometer parcel of land designated for the port, as reported by Bulk Materials International.
Angola’s Lobito Corridor attracts financial aid to 370 companies
Angola is poised to embark on a transformative journey with the launch of the “Diversifica Mais” project aimed at bolstering economic growth and job creation. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Planning, this initiative will provide financial aid and technical support to businesses operating along the Lobito Corridor, a vital economic artery in the country. The project director, Laércio Cândido, unveiled the ambitious plan, which will extend until 2029, focusing on
Private Operators Poised to Transform Africa’s Freight Rail Market
The CEO of Traxtion Africa, which operates the continent’s largest rolling-stock fleet, predicts a transformation in Africa’s biggest freight rail market with the imminent involvement of private operators. James Holley revealed that the South African government is on the verge of releasing a rail network statement, setting out rules for private rail participation, following public consultation. Speaking at an infrastructure conference in Johannesburg, Holley emphasized the significance of this step,
Chennai Railway Factory Unveils Luxurious Premium Rail Coach
The Chennai Railway Factory has introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the realm of train travel with the unveiling of a new premium rail coach. This new coach promises to redefine the passenger experience by offering luxurious amenities previously unseen in traditional train compartments. Equipped with modern features such as attached bathrooms and conference rooms, this premium rail coach represents a significant leap forward in terms of comfort and convenience for