Mozambique and Zimbabwe Forge Strategic Rail Deal to Enhance Freight Services
Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe have signed agreements allowing CFM to operate its locomotives in Zimbabwe, aiming to streamline freight services between the countries. This partnership focuses on key rail corridors and enhances operational efficiency. The agreements also follow a previous partnership with South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have established a significant partnership, allowing CFM to operate its locomotives within Zimbabwe. This collaboration is designed to enhance the efficiency of freight transportation between the two nations, ensuring more dependable and cost-effective rail services for businesses.
The ceremony for the agreement took place in Maputo and was attended by key officials, including CFM Chairman Agostinho Langa Júnior and NRZ Chairman Michael Madiro. The agreements focus on critical rail corridors that connect Mozambique and Zimbabwe, such as the Southern Corridor from Chicualacuala to Rutenga and the Central Corridor from Machipanda to Nyazura.
As part of these agreements, CFM is responsible for providing operational locomotives, crews, fuel, and necessary supplies for sustaining at least two daily round trips. Conversely, NRZ must ensure sufficient cargo volumes for these routes while maintaining the railway infrastructure to facilitate the safe operation of CFM’s locomotives.
This initiative follows CFM’s earlier pact with South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail, signed in April 2023, which aims to streamline operations between Mpumalanga and the Port of Maputo. This arrangement permits trains to operate without needing to change locomotives at the border, thereby reducing transit times and enhancing operational efficiency.
The initial phase of this collaboration has already realized a 23% increase in magnetite exports, with plans to expand further to include chrome and ferrochrome exports, facilitating three daily train operations.
In conclusion, the new agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe mark a significant step toward improving freight transportation efficiency between the two countries. By enabling CFM locomotives to operate in Zimbabwe, the deal aims to provide businesses with reliable and cost-effective services while enhancing export capabilities. This partnership builds upon previous agreements and demonstrates a commitment to collaborative growth in regional trade.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
