The Governments of Zambia and Botswana are also increasing their efforts to implement the Mosetse-Kazungula-Livingstone (MKL) Rail Project, a large-scale cross-border rail project that will transform transport and trade in the region. During a Joint Steering Committee (JSC) meeting in Kasane, top government officials and rail-sector stakeholders assessed progress and the next step to be implemented.
The conference brought together the two representatives of Zambia Railways Limited and Botswana Railways, which shows how strong the partnership has been in ensuring the project is moving forward. The MKL Rail Project is regarded as a game changer to the transport in the region. It is aimed at enhancing the flow of goods and people between the two nations and consolidating connections with regional and global markets.
The railway will constitute a significant component of the larger transport system in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), where effective transport systems are a key component of economic development. Presenting at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Eng., Zambia. Fredrick Mwalusaka termed the project as one of the major economic development drivers. He pointed out that better rail connectivity will help lower the cost of doing business, complement trade growth, and expand border-spanning economic opportunities.
The government of Botswana, through the Acting Permanent Secretary in the transport and infrastructure ministry, Pius Seone, also reiterated its commitment to effectively implementing the project. He stressed that further collaboration between the two states was crucial, particularly in solving technical and policy-related issues. Nevertheless, despite the progress achieved to date, the Joint Steering Committee has recognized that there are still key issues to be addressed. They involve the completion of the consultant’s deliverables and the approval of major project milestones that enable it to enter the next phase.
Authorities emphasized the importance of making decisions more quickly and enhancing the coordination of all stakeholders. One of the key priorities at the moment is completing the Bankable Feasibility Study, which will allow us to create a clear roadmap for implementing the project and attracting potential investors. The Joint Technical Committee (JTC) has been tasked with ensuring that all outstanding studies are completed by 2026.
The MKL Rail Project will span approximately 430 kilometres, of which 365 kilometres will be between Mosetse and Kazungula and 65 kilometres between Kazungula and Livingstone. Upon completion, it will be able to relieve congestion in road transport, reduce logistics costs, and enhance the efficiency of cargo movement. The long-term impact of the railway will be critical to enhancing regional integration, as it will link major trade routes and promote economic activity across Southern Africa. It will also make ports and other strategic markets more accessible, making it simpler to conduct business across borders.
Zambia and Botswana have reiterated their common vision of the MKL Rail Project being a game-changing infrastructure project. As the project continues to be worked on with dedication, it will become a pillar in regional transport and trade.
