NEW: Harare-Maputo logistics rail service launched

Online Reporter

The first dedicated container train service connecting Harare and Maputo was launched by DP World Maputo on Friday and will be expanded in the coming months.

It is believed that the landmark service will reduce transit times for customers in Zimbabwe.

The new bi-weekly service is part of DP World Maputo’s plan to connect several countries in Southern Africa – Mozambique (Maputo) with South Africa, Zimbabwe and Swaziland – by rail.

In addition to presenting multiple new business opportunities for Zimbabwe and Mozambique, the new rail service also helps enhance DP World Maputo’s position as a gateway to Zimbabwe.

In the past, transit goods on their way to Harare would often have to be transported far greater distances by sea and road, but this route will give customers a new, direct and faster option for delivery.

There are also plans to make this a weekly train service between the two cities to allow even greater cost saving and planning opportunities for businesses and individuals who need reliable, efficient transportation of goods.

DP World Maputo chief executive officer Mr Christian Roeder said: “This rail service between Maputo and Harare is key to reopening the route between these markets to drive more efficient logistics in the region. Through this service, which we will facilitate and handle all port and border documentation, we can cut down transit times, give our customers better service and improve the connections between cities.”

DP World, a multinational logistics company, said it will continue to develop the Maputo Corridor – a vital trade route in Southern Africa – through investing in new infrastructure to meet local demand, while DP World Maputo’s container terminal capacity will also be enhanced, having already doubled in size between 2016 and 2018.

Maputo is increasingly being regarded as a global transit hub because of its land connections to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Eswatini, including shipping lines travelling to Europe, the Middle East, India and East Asia.