Online Reporter
Africa Moyo, Harare Bureau
A landmark agreement has been signed between the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) and Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM), which is aimed at enhancing cross-border rail operations.
The deal was signed in Maputo, Mozambique, last week.
NRZ was represented by its board chairman Mr Michael Madiro and general manager Mrs Ainah Dube-Kaguru while the CFM side had chairman Engineer Agostinho Langa Júnior and executive director Engineer Cândido Jone.
The strategic partnership, which becomes effective from Wednesday, is set to facilitate the use of CFM locomotives on NRZ lines, improving freight connectivity between Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The agreement will initially cover two key routes: the 148km stretch between Chicualacuala and Rutenga and an 84km line from Machipanda to Nyazura.
In addition, it includes provisions for a potential extension from Rutenga to Dabuka, contingent upon further discussions between the two railway operators.
As part of the agreement, a joint trolley inspection was scheduled for March 18, along the Rutenga to Chicualacuala corridor.
The inspection aimed to ensure readiness for the upcoming operations and is indicative of the collaborative spirit underpinning the agreement.
Under the terms, CFM is tasked with providing locomotives in optimal working condition, along with sufficient fuel and other necessary consumables to support a minimum of two round trips within a 24-hour period.
CFM will also supply trained crews who will work alongside NRZ personnel to ensure seamless operations along the designated routes.
Conversely, NRZ has committed to maintaining sufficient traffic volumes at Rutenga to prevent CFM locomotives from running light between Rutenga and Chicualacuala.
The railway company will also provide a pilot to accompany CFM crews on these round trips, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.
Further, NRZ is responsible for keeping the track infrastructure in safe, operational condition.
The agreement is set to remain in effect indefinitely, with ongoing reviews based on NRZ’s operational requirements.
By enhancing rail collaboration, CFM and NRZ aim to improve the efficiency of regional freight transport, fostering increased trade and economic integration between the two nations.
Industry experts believe this agreement could transform the logistics landscape in Southern Africa, enabling smoother freight movement and strengthening economic ties.
It will also increase the life of roads, which are presently being damaged regularly by haulage trucks transporting goods across borders.
Analysts say transporting goods by rail is 45 percent cheaper than road, which could result in lower prices which then benefit consumers.
As both countries look to bolster their economies through enhanced infrastructure, the success of this partnership will be closely monitored in the coming months.
