Congo’s SNCC Restores Kananga–Lubumbashi Train Service Earlier Than Planned
Train service between Kananga (Kasaï Central) and Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga) officially resumed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, according to Emmanuel Kalonji, Director of the North Region Department at the National Railway Company of Congo (SNCC).
Originally planned for November 15, the reopening was moved forward following a meeting with local business leaders.
“Our customers could not wait any longer.
After consultation, we decided to restart operations on November 11,” Kalonji said. He noted that the immediate priority is to clear stranded cargo and restore both passenger and freight services to avoid further financial losses for the company and its clients.
Why the Suspension Happened
Train operations had been halted since early October due to anti-erosion work in Kamupongo, a locality near Kananga.
The construction company Safrimex carried out the repairs to prevent erosion from threatening the railway.
Impact on the Logistics Chain
The suspension caused significant disruptions:
Goods piled up in SNCC warehouses in Kananga
Regional markets experienced supply delays
No mail trains operated on the Ilebo–Kananga and Kananga–Lubumbashi routes throughout October
With service now restored, SNCC emphasized the importance of securing the railway line, especially for the transport of ballast and other essential materials.
Ongoing maintenance is crucial to ensure reliable interprovincial trade and the smooth movement of goods.
Infrastructure Work Still Underway
In September, SNCC also launched construction of culverts and drainage channels in Tshimbulu, the second-largest city in Kasaï Central.
The project aims to control erosion threatening both the railway and a section of National Road No. 1. This work is expected to last three months.
The early resumption of service marks a key step in stabilizing supply chains and supporting economic activity across the region.
