To enhance Zambia’s railway infrastructure and strengthen regional trade, the Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Board of Directors, led by Chairperson Emmanuel Hachipuka, recently undertook a familiarization tour of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line.
This visit emphasized the Board’s and Government’s commitment to resuming train operations on the Nacala Corridor, a vital trade route connecting Zambia to the Port of Nacala via Malawi and Mozambique.
During a courtesy call with the Provincial Administration, Mr. Hachipuka highlighted the urgent need to address challenges affecting the railway line’s functionality.
He advocated for a collaborative approach, stressing that funding is crucial for revitalizing the railway. He proposed that the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) could be a potential source of financing or suggested exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to secure the necessary capital for the project.
This collaboration is essential not only for restoring the Zambian segment of the railway but also for coordinating efforts with Malawi, as the effectiveness of Zambia’s rail line is closely linked to its Malawian counterpart.
The ZRL Board’s physical inspection aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line’s current state, crucial for developing effective strategies to advance the project.
Mr. Hachipuka reiterated the government’s commitment, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, to develop this railway alongside other significant initiatives, such as the Lobito Corridor.
This dual focus is part of a broader vision to enhance Zambia’s transportation infrastructure and stimulate economic growth.
To ensure a structured approach to revitalization, the ZRL Board has developed a Strategic Business Plan (SBP) to guide operations over the next five years.
This plan prioritizes savings and reinvestments, aiming to optimize railway performance and sustainability. The SBP outlines a clear roadmap for addressing current challenges while leveraging opportunities to restore efficient train operations on the Nacala Corridor.
Eastern Province Health Director Dr. Matthews Ng’ambi, representing the Provincial Permanent Secretary, acknowledged the railway sector’s pivotal role in Zambia’s economic framework.
He emphasized the importance of the rail network for transporting heavy and bulk cargo, which helps decongest roads and reduce road accidents.
This sentiment reflects the broader consensus on the need for a robust and reliable railway system for safe and efficient transportation.
Train operations on the Nacala Corridor were suspended in 2016 due to severe washaways in Malawi, disrupting the continuity of the rail line.
The corridor spans 1,150 kilometers from Chipata to the Port of Nacala, with the Zambian portion covering a crucial 24-kilometer stretch from Chipata to Mchinji.
Resuming operations on this corridor is vital for Zambia’s trade dynamics, providing a strategic gateway for exports and imports through the Port of Nacala.
Revitalizing the Chipata-Mchinji railway line is not just a transportation project; it is a significant economic initiative.
It promises to enhance trade, stimulate economic activities, and foster regional integration. By addressing existing challenges and securing the necessary funding, Zambia Railways Limited, under Mr. Hachipuka’s leadership, is poised to restore this critical infrastructure.
This endeavor aligns with President Hichilema’s vision of infrastructural development and economic transformation, marking a promising step toward sustainable growth and regional cooperation.
As the ZRL Board advances its efforts, the successful rehabilitation of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line will undoubtedly be a milestone in Zambia’s transportation history, offering renewed hope for enhanced trade and economic prosperity in the region.
