Joseph Isangura
The Government has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) into a modern and globally competitive railway, positioning it as a key driver of regional trade, industrialisation and economic growth across Eastern and Southern Africa.
Speaking during TAZARA’s 50th anniversary celebrations, Minister for Transport Prof. Makame Mbarawa said the railway is entering a new era of transformation that will focus on modern infrastructure, advanced technology, stronger management and improved operational efficiency.
He said the government’s vision is to restore TAZARA as the preferred transport corridor linking the Port of Dar es Salaam with Zambia and other landlocked countries in Southern Africa, strengthening Tanzania’s role as a regional logistics and trade hub.
“Our responsibility is not only to preserve TAZARA’s proud history but also to prepare it for the opportunities and challenges of the next 50 years,” Prof. Mbarawa said.
The Minister stressed that the government’s plan goes far beyond rehabilitating railway tracks, describing the initiative as a strategic investment that will stimulate regional economic integration, expand trade opportunities and enhance Tanzania’s competitiveness in the African transport and logistics sector.
“This is far more than the rehabilitation of railway infrastructure; it is an investment in regional integration, industrial development and the prosperity of our people,” he said.
Prof. Mbarawa outlined a comprehensive reform programme that includes upgrading rail infrastructure, acquiring modern locomotives and wagons, introducing digital railway technologies, strengthening institutional governance and improving operational performance to meet international standards.
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He said a revitalised TAZARA will significantly reduce cargo transportation costs, improve efficiency in the movement of goods and increase the capacity of the Port of Dar es Salaam to serve neighbouring countries, reinforcing Tanzania’s ambition to become the region’s principal maritime gateway.
According to the Minister, the railway’s revival will also unlock new opportunities for key sectors including mining, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism by providing faster, safer and more reliable transport services.
He noted that shifting more freight from roads to rail will ease pressure on highways, reduce road maintenance costs, improve road safety and contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions in line with global climate commitments.
Prof. Mbarawa reaffirmed the commitment of the Governments of Tanzania and Zambia to ensuring TAZARA regains its financial sustainability and operational excellence through strategic investments and stronger institutional reforms.
Constructed in the 1970s as one of Africa’s most significant infrastructure projects, TAZARA has long served as a symbol of regional cooperation and economic partnership between Tanzania and Zambia, providing a critical transport route for copper exports and regional commerce.
As the railway marks five decades of operation, the government says its transformation will support the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by improving cross-border connectivity, facilitating regional supply chains and expanding market access for businesses across Africa.
With a renewed focus on innovation, efficiency and regional integration, officials believe the next chapter of TAZARA’s history will position the railway as one of Africa’s most strategic transport corridors, capable of driving sustainable economic growth and strengthening Tanzania’s position as a leading logistics hub on the continent.
