Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Reporter
ECONOMISTS and tourism players have hailed the reintroduction of passenger trains, saying the development reconnects major urban and tourist centres while offering scenic, affordable, and comfortable travel options.
Two weeks ago, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) resumed passenger train services on the Harare–Mutare and Bulawayo–Victoria Falls routes, operating twice a week.
Economist and institutional analyst, Dr Shynet Chivasa, said the move presents major benefits for Zimbabwe’s tourism and economic sectors.
“The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls line, in particular, links an industrial hub with one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, enhancing access for both domestic and international tourists,” she said.
Dr Chivasa noted that improved rail connectivity encourages longer tourist stays, boosts visits to heritage sites, and supports the hospitality industry — generating more revenue for hotels, restaurants, and local artisans.
“It also strengthens Zimbabwe’s transport system by providing resilience against fuel price increases and road congestion,” she added.
She said the Harare–Mutare line connects the capital to the Eastern Highlands, supporting agricultural trade, small-scale industries, and informal sector activities.
“Reliable rail transport lowers travel costs, improves supply chain efficiency, and attracts business ventures, contributing to employment creation and enterprise development,” said Dr Chivasa.
She added that trains also reduce road maintenance expenses and traffic accidents by easing congestion on major highways.
“These combined effects promote inclusive economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development within Zimbabwe’s transport and tourism sectors,” she said.
NRZ is implementing a recapitalisation programme under the Government’s broader infrastructure modernisation efforts to reposition the parastatal as a key driver of economic growth and regional trade.
Improved rail operations are expected to reduce Zimbabwe’s heavy reliance on road transport, which has contributed to rapid highway deterioration and high maintenance costs due to heavy truck traffic.
By shifting bulk cargo back to rail, Government will save on road repairs while improving highway safety.
At a regional level, a revitalised NRZ will strengthen Zimbabwe’s role as a logistics hub in southern Africa. Enhanced rail links with South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique will boost cross-border trade and attract transit cargo along the North–South Corridor.
The NRZ recapitalisation programme is also expected to create thousands of jobs through infrastructure rehabilitation and new rolling stock procurement.
Now under the Mutapa Investment Fund, NRZ is seen as pivotal to achieving Vision 2030 — transforming Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy.
Sterling Group of Hotels Matabeleland general manager, Mr Fungai Mutseyekwa, said the train service will help boost tourism by providing affordable travel options.
“Train travel leaves tourists with more disposable income to spend on local attractions. We hope the service remains consistent and adheres to schedules, as was the case in the past,” said Mr Mutseyekwa.
“We commend NRZ for this bold and progressive step in reviving an essential national service.”
