Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have signed agreements for CFM to operate its locomotives in Zimbabwe, streamlining freight transport. The deals cover critical rail corridors and involve operational support from CFM in exchange for cargo commitments from NRZ. This partnership builds on earlier achievements with Transnet Freight Rail, promising to enhance overall logistics efficiency.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have forged a significant partnership, allowing CFM to operate its trains within Zimbabwe. This initiative is designed to enhance the efficiency of freight transportation between the two nations, offering businesses access to more dependable and economical rail services.
The signing ceremony took place in Maputo, attended by key officials, including CFM Chairman Agostinho Langa Júnior, Executive Director Cândido Jone, NRZ Chairman Michael Madiro, and General Manager Ainah Dube-Kaguru. The agreements concern critical rail corridors that connect Mozambique and Zimbabwe, specifically the Southern Corridor (148 kilometers from Chicualacuala to Rutenga) and the Central Corridor (84 kilometers between Machipanda and Nyazura).
According to the agreements, CFM will provide operational locomotives, train staff, and the necessary fuel for maintaining a minimum of two daily round-trips between the two countries. In exchange, NRZ will ensure sufficient cargo volumes for these routes and maintain railway infrastructure to guarantee the safe operation of CFM’s locomotives.
These agreements come on the heels of a prior arrangement between CFM and South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail, established in April 2023, which facilitates seamless cross-border train operations from Mpumalanga to the Port of Maputo. This previous deal enables trains to continue across borders without needing to change locomotives, which accelerates freight transit times and boosts operational efficiency.
The initial phase of the collaboration resulted in a 23% increase in magnetite export volumes. It has been further expanded to encompass chrome and ferrochrome exports, allowing for up to three trains to operate daily between the two countries.
The agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe signify a vital step towards enhancing freight transportation efficiency within Southern Africa. By allowing CFM to operate directly in Zimbabwe, the collaboration promises improved reliability in freight services while addressing logistical challenges. The previous successes with Transnet Freight Rail highlight the potential for mutual growth and development in the region’s rail infrastructure.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
