Online Reporter
Andile Tshuma, Zimpapers Writer
THE National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has made significant progress in refurbishing wagons and locomotives through its ongoing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with mining firm Zimasco, a move aimed at improving operational efficiency and reinforcing rail as a preferred mode of bulk cargo transport.
The partnership, which has been in place for several months, has already seen the refurbishment of more than 80 wagons and locomotives, demonstrating NRZ’s commitment to modernising its fleet and enhancing service reliability.
The push comes as Government enforces restrictions on the weight carried by haulage trucks to protect road infrastructure, while the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development continues to rehabilitate major highways.
The policy shift is expected to divert more bulk cargo from roads to rail, providing NRZ with an opportunity to capitalise on increased demand.
Acting Chief Engineer for Traction and Rolling Stock at NRZ, Engineer Farai Chawana, said the refurbishment programme has been instrumental in extending the lifespan of the parastatal’s rolling stock while ensuring operational safety.
“We have undertaken a targeted refurbishment programme for both wagons and locomotives. This includes wheel profiling to improve durability and safety, ensuring our rolling stock meets operational demands locally and across the region,” said Eng Chawana.
He said the progress made so far positions NRZ to handle increased cargo volumes efficiently, particularly as policy measures shift more bulk freight from road to rail.
NRZ public relations manager, Mr Andrew Kunambura, said the partnership has allowed the parastatal to execute a cost-effective recapitalisation programme that strengthens its operational capacity.
“The refurbishment programme is ongoing, and we have already made significant progress. With the restrictions on heavy haulage trucks, we are now well placed to meet the anticipated increase in bulk cargo demand,” he said.
Mr Kunambura added that NRZ is targeting completion of the current phase of locomotive refurbishment by April next year, which will further enhance service delivery and turnaround times.
“By April, we expect to have refurbished several locomotives, which will improve operational efficiency and strengthen rail’s role as a reliable alternative for bulk cargo transportation,” he said.
The initiative aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which emphasises infrastructure development, logistics efficiency and reducing road maintenance costs by promoting rail transport.
Industry analysts say that with ongoing PPP support and strategic refurbishments, NRZ is better positioned to capture a larger share of bulk freight, reduce transport costs, and contribute to the country’s broader industrial and economic recovery.
