The Setrag multipurpose hall served as the venue for the signing of Agreement No. 4, which formalises the continued partnership between the Government representing the Gabonese State and Setrag, the concessionaire of the Transgabonese Railway. While building on the foundations laid by previous agreements, this fourth agreement marks a significant step forward in the relationship between the Gabonese State and Setrag.
The agreement outlines several objectives to ensure the continuation of operations aimed at modernising and ensuring the smooth flow of the railway. These objectives include:
- Repairing eight critically damaged civil engineering structures, such as bridges and viaducts.
- Increasing the volume of freight and passenger transport.
- Purchasing and commissioning two passenger trains.
- Acquiring track inspection vehicles (draisines) to improve track maintenance and enhance passenger service efficiency.
- Constructing or refurbishing buildings to meet the increasing economic and social demand.
A Step Forward for Setrag
The signing of this agreement reaffirms Setrag’s status as the concessionaire of the Transgabonese Railway and clarifies the allocation of responsibilities between the parties involved in the continuation of the Track Modernisation and Safety Programme (PMS). Setrag’s investments will focus on:
- Purchasing rails, sleepers (railway ties), and ballast.
- Acquiring specialised technical equipment required to maintain and upgrade railway infrastructure.
- Additionally, the agreement formally establishes the readjustment of tariffs to ensure Setrag maintains sufficient cash flow to sustain its investment commitments.
Opening the Door to New Investors
The signing of this agreement, which follows the implementation of Law No. 032, also paves the way for economic operators interested in acquiring a stake in Setrag. This provision allows new investors to become part of Setrag’s capital without compromising the company’s interests or the substantial financial commitments made to modernise Gabon’s railway infrastructure.
By maintaining its focus on infrastructure improvements and operational efficiency, Setrag continues to play a pivotal role in the growth and development of Gabon’s railway sector.
