Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
THE Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway (BBR) is accelerating the development of its rail network, valued at an estimated US$1.5 billion, as it seeks to transform the North-South Corridor into a more efficient strategic trade route linking Zimbabwe with regional markets and restoring rail as the preferred mode of bulk cargo transport.
In the latest development, the company has commissioned a US$1.5 million lithium transhipment rail siding in West Nicholson, Matabeleland South, a move expected to boost mineral exports while supporting Government efforts to shift freight from road to rail.
The facility has already dispatched its first consignment of lithium concentrate from Gwanda to the Port of Maputo in Mozambique.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Monday, BBR general manager Mr Khumbulani Tendai Mabvura said investments along the railway corridor would strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a regional logistics hub.
“The BBR concession remains one of the notable public-private partnership success stories in the region. It has demonstrated that infrastructure partnerships, when properly structured and professionally managed, can deliver long-term value to the country.
“The current economic value of the BBR line is conservatively estimated at about US$1.5 billion. Its importance on the North-South Corridor cannot be overstated. This corridor is a strategic trade route linking Zimbabwe to regional markets and supporting the movement of goods across Southern Africa,” he said.
Mr Mabvura said the corridor plays a critical role in facilitating exports, imports, transit cargo, mining inputs, fuel, agricultural commodities and industrial goods.
He said an efficient railway network improves regional competitiveness, reduces the cost of doing business and enables faster movement of goods from production centres to markets.
“We are also speaking about Zimbabwe’s credibility as a transport and logistics destination. Therefore, every siding, every kilometre of track, every wagon and every operational improvement matters. The country needs corridors that are efficient, safe and competitive,” he said.
Mr Mabvura said continued investment in rail infrastructure also creates employment opportunities, stimulates local procurement, supports small businesses and contributes to community development.
He stressed that revitalising Zimbabwe’s rail sector requires a coordinated national approach involving Government, railway operators, mining companies, financiers and other stakeholders.
“This requires policy support, predictable volumes, bankable cargo commitments, reliable rolling stock, competitive tariffs and continued collaboration between Government, railway operators, mining houses and financiers,” he said.
Mr Mabvura noted that rail infrastructure development is highly capital-intensive and requires long-term financing.
“Rail infrastructure is capital intensive. It requires long-term funding. Banks and investors are more willing to support the sector when they can see committed volumes and a clear policy direction. It is in this context that we respectfully request continued Government support in strengthening the rail sector.
“We also remain mindful that railway operations must be conducted safely. I therefore urge communities, motorists, employees and all stakeholders to respect railway safety requirements. Rail is powerful, efficient and useful, but it must be treated with discipline and care,” he said.
The commissioning of the West Nicholson lithium transhipment facility is expected to increase the use of rail for mineral exports, reduce pressure on the country’s road network and strengthen Zimbabwe’s role as a key transit and logistics hub within the Southern African region.
Colletta Dube