Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube in Chengdu, China
Zimbabwe is seeking stronger cooperation with Chinese railway engineering firms as Government moves to rehabilitate and modernise the country’s national railway network, Public Service Deputy Minister Mercy Dinha has said.
Speaking after touring the China Railway Number 2 Engineering Group Company in Chengdu, China, Deputy Minister Dinha said the visit came at a critical time as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to restore its railway infrastructure and improve its capacity to support economic growth.
“This visit comes at a pivotal moment, as we are aware our government is actively pursuing a comprehensive rehabilitation of our national railway network, a vital artery for our economy and a cornerstone of our national development strategy.
“Zimbabwe is looking beyond the rehabilitation of existing railway lines and was seeking partnerships that could support the modernisation of the entire rail system. We seek partnership to modernise our rail lines, upgrade signalling systems, supply new locomotives and wagons, and construct new strategic connections,” said the Deputy Minister.
She said the country’s railway system was operating significantly below its historical capacity, constraining economic activity and limiting Zimbabwe’s ability to fully exploit its geographical position in the region.
“Our current rail network carries less than 50 percent of its peak volume, severely constraining our economic transformation agenda. Reviving the railway network is therefore central to Government’s efforts to expand trade, improve transportation efficiency and strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a true regional economic hub,” said the Deputy Minister.
During the tour, the Zimbabwean delegation was exposed to the company’s railway engineering capabilities and expertise..
The Deputy Minister said Zimbabwe viewed Chinese engineering companies as potential strategic partners in the country’s railway modernisation programme, particularly as the Government seeks to address infrastructure gaps affecting the movement of people and goods.
“We value your expertise and see you as a key partner in building modern, efficient rail systems that save our people and our industries.”
Deputy Minister Dinha said improved rail infrastructure would also contribute to Zimbabwe’s broader economic transformation agenda by creating a more efficient transport system capable of supporting industry and regional trade.
She urged the leadership of China Railway Number 2 Engineering Group Company to consider Zimbabwe as a partner as the country pursues its railway development ambitions.
Deputy Minister Dinha said the visit provided an opportunity for the two sides to exchange ideas on areas of possible cooperation and identify opportunities for deeper engagement in railway development.
“Leadership at China Railway Number 2 Engineering Group Company, I say Zimbabwe is ready. We look forward to a productive exchange today and to deepening our cooperation in the years ahead,” she said.
