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Deputy Minister of Transport, David Kihenzile, has announced plans to revamp the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) line.
This follows his visit to TAZARA headquarters, an assignment from Minister of Transport, Makame Mbarawa, to assess the railway’s efficiency and identify challenges for prompt government intervention.
“I traveled on the Mwakyembe train from TAZARA to Mwakanga, a distance of 20 kilometers, to evaluate its performance,” Kihenzile said shortly after disembarking from the train.
During his journey, Kihenzile observed that Tanzanians have a strong trust in the railway service.
According to a three-year report, over five million passengers have used the railway—significantly outnumbering those traveling to Zambia, Kidatu, and Makambako combined.
He noted the need for investment in new wagons, locomotives, and infrastructure. However, he assured the public that the government has already begun addressing these issues.
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“I’ve reassured our passengers that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is committed to improving this railway. Two years ago, she visited Zambia and met with its President. Last September, the Presidents of China, Tanzania, and Zambia convened and agreed on comprehensive upgrades for this railway, originally built in 1975,” Kihenzile stated.
The deputy minister highlighted that the railway is in a deteriorated state. Initially designed to handle five million tons of cargo annually, last year it managed only 447,000 tons—just 9% of its capacity.
Kihenzile emphasized that the overhaul will take time to ensure a high-quality outcome, stressing that the goal is to meet the expectations of the citizens relying on the service.
TAZARA Tanzania’s General Manager, Fuad Abdallah, added that other priority areas include upgrading bridges, tunnels, tracks, and switching stations, as well as acquiring locomotives and wagons capable of carrying heavier loads.
“Our current wagons are outdated and unable to handle heavy containers. While the railway is designed for five million tons, our existing locomotives and wagons can only support 500,000 tons,” Abdallah explained.
The overhaul is expected to restore TAZARA’s capacity and improve transport services for the millions who depend on the railway.
