In a bid to enhance Zambia’s railway infrastructure and bolster regional trade, the Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Board of Directors, led by Board Chairperson Emmanuel Hachipuka, recently embarked on a familiarization tour of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line. This strategic visit underscored the Board and Government’s dedication to resuming train operations on the Nacala Corridor, an essential trade route that connects Zambia to the Port of Nacala through Malawi and Mozambique.
During a courtesy call with the Provincial Administration, Mr. Hachipuka articulated the pressing need to address existing challenges hindering the railway line’s functionality. Emphasizing a collaborative approach, he highlighted the critical role of funding in revamping the railway line. He proposed that the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) could be a potential source of funds or suggested exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to inject the necessary capital for revitalizing the project. This approach would not only ensure the restoration of the Zambian segment of the railway but also necessitate cooperation with Malawian counterparts, given that the operational efficacy of Zambia’s rail line is intricately linked to the Malawian section.
The physical inspection conducted by the ZRL Board aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the current state of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line. This evaluation is crucial for formulating strategies to advance the project effectively. Mr. Hachipuka reiterated the government’s commitment, spearheaded by President Hakainde Hichilema, to develop this railway line alongside other significant projects 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 and strategic approach to the railway’s revitalization, the ZRL Board has developed a Strategic Business Plan (SBP) to guide its operations over the next five years. This plan prioritizes savings and reinvestments, aiming to optimize the railway’s performance and sustainability. The SBP outlines a clear roadmap for addressing the current challenges and leveraging opportunities to reinstate efficient train operations on the Nacala Corridor.
Eastern Province Health Director Dr. Matthews Ng’ambi, representing the Provincial Permanent Secretary, acknowledged the pivotal role of the railway sector in Zambia’s economic framework. He highlighted the importance of the rail network in transporting heavy and bulk cargo, which significantly contributes to decongesting roads and reducing the incidence of road accidents. This sentiment echoes the broader consensus on the need for a robust and reliable railway system to facilitate safe and efficient transportation.
Train operations on the Nacala Corridor were suspended in 2016 due to severe washaways in Malawi, which disrupted 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. The resumption of operations on this corridor is vital for Zambia’s trade dynamics, providing a strategic gateway for exports and imports through the Port of Nacala.
The revitalization of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line is not just a transportation project but a significant economic initiative. It promises to enhance trade, stimulate economic activities, and foster regional integration. By addressing the existing challenges and securing the necessary funding, Zambia Railways Limited, under the leadership of Mr. Hachipuka, 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 towards sustainable growth and regional cooperation.
As the ZRL Board advances its efforts, the successful rehabilitation of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line will undoubtedly mark a milestone in Zambia’s transportation history, offering renewed hope for enhanced trade and economic prosperity in the region.
