Mozambique and Zimbabwe Strengthen Rail Cooperation with New Agreement
Mozambique Railways and Zimbabwe’s National Railways have signed agreements allowing CFM’s locomotives to operate in Zimbabwe, enhancing freight transport efficiency. This partnership includes operational commitments from both parties to ensure safe and economic rail services between the two countries.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have formalized a strategic partnership by signing agreements that permit CFM’s locomotives to operate within Zimbabwe. This collaboration is intended to enhance the efficiency of freight transportation between Mozambique and Zimbabwe, thereby offering more reliable and economical rail services for businesses in both countries.
The signing ceremony took place in Maputo, attended by notable officials including Agostinho Langa Júnior, Chairman of CFM, Cândido Jone, Executive Director of CFM, Michael Madiro, Chairman of NRZ, and Ainah Dube-Kaguru, General Manager of NRZ. The agreements focus on vital rail corridors that connect the two nations, specifically the Southern Corridor from Chicualacuala to Rutenga, which spans 148 kilometers, and the Central Corridor between Machipanda and Nyazura, extending 84 kilometers.
As per the agreements, CFM is responsible for supplying operational locomotives, trained personnel for the train operations, and the necessary fuel and consumables to facilitate at least two round-trips daily between Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Conversely, NRZ has pledged to ensure sufficient cargo volumes along these routes and to maintain railway infrastructure to ensure safe operation of CFM’s locomotives on the network.
These new agreements build upon CFM’s earlier pact with Transnet Freight Rail of South Africa established in April 2023, which simplified cross-border operations from Mpumalanga to the Port of Maputo. This arrangement has significantly minimized freight transit times by allowing continuous operation of trains across the border without changing locomotives, leading to improved operational efficiency.
Post-implementation of the initial phase of collaboration, a noteworthy increase of 23% in magnetite export volumes was recorded. The scope of the agreement has subsequently expanded to encompass the export of chrome and ferrochrome, as well as the operation of three trains daily.
The recent agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe signify a pivotal advancement in enhancing rail connectivity between the two nations. By facilitating improved freight services, the collaboration not only streamlines logistical operations but also aims to boost economic activity through increased efficiency and cargo volumes. Furthermore, the success of prior agreements with South Africa indicates promising potential for further enhancing regional trade activities.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
