The Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM) and National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have entered into a working agreement to enhance cross-border rail operations. This collaboration aims to facilitate the use of CFM locomotives on NRZ lines, improving rail connectivity and freight movement between the two countries.
Under the agreement, CFM will provide locomotive services over specific rail sections, including the 148km stretch between Chicualacuala and Rutenga, as well as the 84km route from Machipanda to Nyazura in the short term. A long-term provision is also included, allowing for the eventual extension of operations from Rutenga to Dabuka, pending further discussions and conditions to be agreed upon by both parties.
The agreement becomes effective upon signing, with implementation scheduled for 26 March 2025. In preparation for this, a joint line trolley inspection is set to take place on 18 March 2025 along the Rutenga to Chicualacuala corridor. The agreement is closely tied to the broader business arrangement between CFM and NRZ, which governs their operational cooperation. Where specific details are not covered, the existing CFM/NRZ business agreement will apply.
As part of the agreement, CFM is responsible for ensuring the availability of locomotives in good working condition to support uninterrupted operations over NRZ lines. The railway operator has also committed to supplying adequate fuel and other necessary consumables to facilitate a minimum of two round trips within a 24-hour period. CFM will provide trained crews who will work alongside NRZ pilot personnel on the designated sections, ensuring seamless operations between Chicualacuala and Rutenga, as well as from Machipanda to Nyazura.
NRZ, on the other hand, has agreed to ensure that Rutenga maintains sufficient traffic volumes to prevent CFM locomotives from running light between Rutenga and Chicualacuala. Additionally, NRZ will provide a pilot man to accompany CFM crews on the round trips between these points. The railway company has also committed to maintaining the track infrastructure in a safe and operational condition to allow CFM locomotives to traverse the line without disruptions.
The agreement is set to remain in effect for an indefinite period, subject to ongoing reviews and NRZ’s operational requirements. By strengthening rail collaboration between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, the agreement is expected to improve the efficiency of regional freight transport, fostering increased trade and economic integration between the two nations.
