Zimbabwe’s 2025 Infrastructure Investment Programme, released in November 2024, highlights significant steps towards revitalising the nation’s rail infrastructure to alleviate pressure on overloaded road networks. This ambitious plan combines private-sector funding with budget allocations and resources from state-owned enterprises to address critical challenges in the transport sector.
In September 2024, during a State visit to China led by His Excellency President Cde. E.D Mnangagwa, a Framework Agreement was signed between the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) and China Rail International Group to initiate the Zimbabwe National Railways Rehabilitation Project. Phase one of the project focuses on several key interventions:
- Procurement of 17 locomotives, 200 wagons, and essential workshop and maintenance equipment, including tampering machines, trolleys, electrical and lighting equipment.
- Emergency repairs to severely damaged sections of the rail network, including 185.6 km of damaged points and the replacement of 144.1 km of steel rails.
- Rehabilitation of five stations and yards, including Lonchinvar, Mutare, Dabuka, Mpopoma, and Thompson Junction.
- Addressing other pressing operational challenges, including the removal of sanctions.
The estimated construction cost for phase one of the project is US$257.2 million, with an expected completion timeline of two years following financial closure.
The decline in railway capacity and the deterioration of services have caused a modal shift to road transportation, further exacerbating freight costs and the strain on Zimbabwe’s already deteriorated road network. While the Government continues to engage development banks, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), and regional collaborations for sustainable rail infrastructure financing, the realisation of these efforts remains limited.
However, progress is evident, with operational arrangements now in place for locomotives to run through Machipanda to Mutare and Francistown to Bulawayo.
Maintenance programmes are being rigorously pursued as part of the broader recapitalisation agenda. To combat the theft of railway assets, NRZ has implemented advanced security measures, including the procurement of drone technology, installation of CCTV systems at strategic locations, and enhanced access control.
Recognising the capital-intensive nature of rail infrastructure, the Government has allocated ZiG180 millionin the national budget to support NRZ’s recapitalisation initiatives. This provision will be complemented by loan financing and additional resources mobilised through NRZ’s operations.
Read more about the Zimbabwe Infrastructure Investment Programme 2025
