Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have signed agreements to allow CFM’s locomotives to operate in Zimbabwe. The partnership seeks to enhance freight transportation efficiency through key rail corridors. CFM will supply locomotives and staff, while NRZ will maintain railway infrastructure and provide adequate cargo. This agreement follows CFM’s previous collaboration with South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail, aimed at improving cross-border operations.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have recently finalized significant agreements allowing CFM to operate locomotives within Zimbabwe. This partnership is designed to enhance the efficiency of freight transport between the two nations, ultimately benefiting businesses by providing more reliable and cost-effective rail services.
The signing ceremony, held in Maputo, was attended by prominent officials including CFM Chairman Agostinho Langa Júnior, CFM Executive Director Cândido Jone, NRZ Chairman Michael Madiro, and NRZ General Manager Ainah Dube-Kaguru. The two newly established operational agreements focus on crucial rail corridors that connect Mozambique and Zimbabwe, notably the Southern Corridor—which spans 148 kilometers from Chicualacuala to Rutenga—and the Central Corridor, extending 84 kilometers between Machipanda and Nyazura.
According to the agreements, CFM will provide operational locomotives in suitable condition, along with necessary staff, fuel, and other consumables to sustain a minimum of two daily round trips between the two countries. In exchange, NRZ will ensure the provision of adequate cargo volumes for these routes as well as maintain the railway infrastructure to support the safe movement of CFM’s locomotives.
This recent development comes on the heels of CFM’s collaboration with South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail established in April 2023, which facilitates seamless cross-border operations between Mpumalanga and the Port of Maputo. The arrangement eliminates the need for locomotive changes at the border, consequently streamlining freight transit and enhancing overall efficiency.
As a result of the initial phase of this collaboration, there was a notable 23% increase in magnetite export volumes. This agreement was subsequently expanded to encompass exports of chrome and ferrochrome, facilitating the operation of up to three trains daily.
In conclusion, the railway agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe signify a crucial step towards enhancing freight transportation efficiency between the two nations. The arrangement aims to provide reliable service while ensuring proper maintenance of infrastructure and operational capabilities. This collaboration follows similar successful agreements with South Africa, indicating a positive trend in regional logistics improvements.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
