A US$2.15 billion contract was signed on January 29 to construct the first railway line in Burundi, connecting Uvinza, Tanzania, to Musongati. The railway, partially funded by the African Development Bank, will enhance mineral export capabilities and promote economic growth in the region.
On January 29, a significant contract worth US$2.15 billion was awarded to construct an electrified standard gauge railway connecting Uvinza in Tanzania to Musongati in Burundi. This project marks the introduction of the first main line railway in Burundi, enhancing its transportation infrastructure.
The agreement was signed by government officials from Tanzania and Burundi in collaboration with the China Railway Engineering Group and the China Railway Engineering Design & Consulting Group. Financing will be provided by the African Development Bank through a concessional loan, emphasizing its innovative role in funding Tanzanian railway initiatives.
Tanzania’s Finance Minister, Mwigulu Nchemba, noted the importance of this project, stating, “This is a very significant moment because it marks the first foray of AfDB in the financing of Tanzania’s railway projects.” The railway is anticipated to facilitate the export of various minerals from Burundi, including nickel, platinum, palladium, copper, gold, and iron, with an expected shipping volume of up to 3 million tonnes annually.
The construction will occur in two sections; the Tanzanian segment will extend approximately 120 kilometers from Uvinza to the Burundian border at the Malagarasi River, where a combined road-rail bridge measuring 1 kilometer will be constructed. Subsequently, the Burundian section will proceed northwards to Musongati, completing this vital transportation link.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding to initiate this link was established in January 2022. In December 2022, Tanzania signed a separate contract worth US$2.2 billion with Chinese firms to undertake the construction of the 411-kilometer Tabora-Uvinza-Kigoma line, which branches off from the Dar es Salaam-Mwanza railway.
The new railway project between Tanzania and Burundi, financed by the African Development Bank, represents a critical advancement in regional infrastructure. By facilitating mineral exports and connecting landlocked Burundi to the Tanzanian port, it is poised to stimulate economic growth and improve trade routes. This marks a historic milestone for both nations in railway development.
Original Source: www.railwaygazette.com
