Mozambique Railways and National Railways of Zimbabwe have agreed to allow CFM to operate its locomotives in Zimbabwe, aiming to improve freight services between the two countries. Key agreements cover important rail corridors, with CFM providing operational support and NRZ ensuring cargo volume and infrastructure maintenance. This agreement builds on a previous deal with Transnet Freight Rail, enhancing cross-border operations.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have formalized a significant agreement that allows CFM to operate its locomotives within Zimbabwe. This collaboration is intended to enhance freight transport efficiency between Mozambique and Zimbabwe, providing businesses with dependable and economical rail services. The signing ceremony, held in Maputo, was attended by high-ranking officials from both organizations, including CFM Chairman Agostinho Langa Júnior and NRZ General Manager Ainah Dube-Kaguru.
The two operational agreements focus on critical rail corridors that connect the two countries. These include the 148-kilometer Southern Corridor from Chicualacuala to Rutenga, and the 84-kilometer Central Corridor linking Machipanda to Nyazura. Under the terms, CFM will furnish operational locomotives, staff for train operations, and necessary fuel to support at least two daily round-trips between Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
In exchange, NRZ has pledged to provide adequate cargo volumes and maintain the railway infrastructure, ensuring the secure operation of CFM locomotives. This latest partnership builds upon CFM’s earlier arrangement with Transnet Freight Rail of South Africa, established in April 2023, which improved cross-border train operations from Mpumalanga to the Port of Maputo by eliminating the need for locomotive changes at the border.
As a result of this collaboration, freight transit times have been reduced, leading to an impressive 23% increase in magnetite export volumes during the first phase. The agreement was subsequently expanded to encompass chrome and ferrochrome exports and the operation of three trains daily.
The recent agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe mark a pivotal moment in enhancing rail logistics in Southern Africa. By allowing CFM to operate within Zimbabwe, the collaboration promises to bolster freight efficiency and reliability, benefiting trade between the two nations. The initiative follows successful operational expansions with South Africa, further signifying a commitment to improving regional transport infrastructure. Ultimately, these efforts are anticipated to enhance export capabilities and economic growth for both countries.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
