Mozambique Railways and Zimbabwe’s National Railways have signed agreements enabling CFM locomotives to operate in Zimbabwe, enhancing freight transport. The collaboration focuses on key rail corridors and includes commitments from both entities to improve service reliability and cargo volumes, following previous successful partnerships.
Mozambique Railways (CFM) and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have established significant agreements allowing CFM to operate its locomotives within Zimbabwe. This partnership seeks to enhance freight transportation efficiency between the two nations, offering businesses more dependable and cost-effective rail service options.
The signing ceremony, which took place in Maputo, was attended by prominent officials, including CFM Chairman Agostinho Langa Júnior and NRZ Chairman Michael Madiro. Their presence underscores the collaborative commitment to improve logistical operations between Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The agreements focus on essential rail corridors such as the Southern Corridor, which extends 148 kilometers from Chicualacuala to Rutenga, and the Central Corridor, spanning 84 kilometers from Machipanda to Nyazura. These routes are critical for seamless freight transit between the two countries.
Under the new terms, CFM will furnish operational locomotives, train personnel, and necessary fuel and supplies to support at least two daily round-trips on these routes. In turn, NRZ will ensure sufficient cargo volumes and maintain railway infrastructure to facilitate the safe operation of CFM’s locomotives.
These new agreements follow CFM’s previous arrangement with South Africa’s Transnet Freight Rail in April 2023. This prior deal enabled cross-border train services without the need for locomotive changes, significantly reducing freight transit times and enhancing operational efficiency.
The initial phase of CFM’s collaboration with Transnet resulted in a 23% increase in magnetite exports. The partnership later expanded to include chrome and ferrochrome exports, increasing to three train operations daily, reflecting the success of such cooperative initiatives in the region.
The recent agreements between Mozambique Railways and the National Railways of Zimbabwe signify a transformative step in cross-border rail operations. By facilitating operational synergies and enhancing service reliability, this partnership is poised to improve freight movement efficiency and bolster trade between the two countries. The ongoing collaborations demonstrate a commitment to regional economic integration and operational improvements in rail transport.
Original Source: www.freightnews.co.za
