The Deputy Minister of Transport acknowledged infrastructure challenges at TAZARA and called for patience during ongoing negotiations for revitalisation plans.
The Deputy Minister of Transport (Tanzania), Hon. David Kihenzile, has acknowledged the challenges posed by worn-out infrastructure along the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) line, following an inspection trip on 9 January 2024, from Dar es Salaam to Mwakanga Station and an earlier visit to Tunduma and Mbeya.
Hon. Kihenzile stated that the visits highlighted the pressing need for the comprehensive rehabilitation of TAZARA’s railway system to meet modern transportation demands.
Speaking after his ride on the Dar es Salaam Commuter Train journey to Mwakanga, 30km in the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, Hon. Kihenzile pointed out the historical importance of TAZARA, noting its critical role in regional connectivity and trade.
He also addressed the stark contrast between TAZARA’s original design capacity and current performance:
“This is a special railway, and not every country is lucky to have such infrastructure. It was designed to haul five million tonnes annually, but last year’s report shows it transported about 447,000 tonnes—just 9% of its capacity.
To address these challenges, we need to carefully consider professional, legal, international, and technical aspects. Negotiations are ongoing, and once concluded, we expect a robust solution that will transform TAZARA. Patience is essential as we work towards achieving a good outcome.”
The Deputy Minister further noted that communities and businesses from Dar es Salaam to Songwe, as well as neighbouring countries, were eagerly awaiting improved railway services. He assured the public that the rehabilitation process had already begun, with the full blessings of the Heads of State of Tanzania, Zambia, and China and urged stakeholders to remain patient.
Negotiations for the revitalisation of TAZARA were expected to conclude within the early part of 2025, the Deputy Minister assured.
TAZARA’s Regional General Manager for Tanzania Highlights the Need for Comprehensive Upgrades
Mr. Fuad Abdallah, TAZARA’s Regional General Manager for Tanzania, echoed the Deputy Minister’s sentiments, emphasising the need for total rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, including bridges, tracks, tunnels, and exchange points.
“The major challenge we face is that our ageing wagons cannot carry heavy containers. We urgently need new locomotives and wagons capable of hauling significant cargo. Addressing these areas is vital for TAZARA’s revitalisation,” said Mr. Abdallah.
Having been in operation since 1976, TAZARA’s infrastructure has often faced limited investments and, at times, irregular maintenance. The same applies to its rolling stock. Decades of wear and tear now require large-scale investment and modernisation to restore the railway’s efficiency and reliability. The governments of Tanzania and Zambia, with the full support of China, remain committed to addressing these challenges and positioning the railway as a vital backbone for regional trade and connectivity.
