Zimbabwe’s Rail Ambitions Signal New Era for Bulk Cargo and Regional Trade

Zimbabwe’s National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has faced a dramatic decline in freight capacity over the past two decades, with volumes plummeting from over 12.4 million tons in 1998 to less than three million tons in recent years—far below its installed capacity of 18 million tons. This downturn has not only impacted the efficiency of bulk cargo movement but has also shifted the burden onto the country’s road network, causing severe damage to key highways such as the Bulawayo–Hwange route. The consequences have been particularly acute for the mining sector, which relies heavily on the movement of coal and minerals, and for the broader economy, which depends on reliable logistics for growth and competitiveness across the SADC region [[1]](https://allafrica.com/stories/202501210047.html).

In response, Zimbabwe’s government has unveiled an ambitious National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2), running from January 2026 to December 2030. The strategy is designed to reverse the fortunes of the NRZ by focusing on the rehabilitation, expansion, and maintenance of the national railway network. The overarching goal is to restore rail as the backbone of bulk cargo movement, particularly for the mining sector, and to relieve the pressure on the country’s overstretched road infrastructure.

Central to this vision are several policy priorities that align with regional and global best practices. The government plans to develop a Railway Safety and Standards Framework in line with SADC protocols, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s rail operations meet international benchmarks for safety and efficiency. A rolling stock localisation strategy will promote domestic manufacturing, creating opportunities for local industry and reducing reliance on imports. The introduction of a green rail policy aims to advance energy-efficient, low-carbon transport solutions, positioning Zimbabwe as a leader in sustainable logistics within the region. Additionally, a review of the public-private partnership (PPP) policy is expected to attract sustainable investment and foster collaboration between government and private sector players.

The targets set under NDS 2 are bold: freight throughput is expected to rise from a 2025 baseline of 2.1 million tons to 12 million tons by 2030, while annual passenger numbers are projected to soar from 3,500 to 700,000. Achieving these targets will require a comprehensive approach, focusing on three core areas: rail infrastructure rehabilitation and upgrade, rolling stock recapitalisation, and the modernisation of signalling and telecommunications.

Among the flagship projects is the upgrading of the Mutare–Harare–Chirundu corridor, with an estimated investment of US\$1.2 billion between 2027 and 2030. This project, to be financed through PPPs or debt, will include the construction of a new 217-kilometre railway line linking Lion’s Den in Zimbabwe to Kafue in Zambia. This strategic link will not only strengthen SADC interconnectivity but also facilitate seamless north–south trade, enhancing the movement of bulk cargo between Zimbabwe, Zambia, and further into the Democratic Republic of Congo. Such infrastructure is vital for African economies seeking to leverage regional trade agreements and tap into new markets.

Another critical development is the construction of the Mvuma-Manhize-Rusape railway line, budgeted at US\$550 million and targeted for completion by 2030. This line will connect the burgeoning iron and steel production hub at Manhize with both domestic and export markets, supporting value addition and industrialisation—key priorities for African economies aiming to move up the value chain.

To address the chronic underinvestment in existing infrastructure, the government will embark on the rehabilitation of 1,700 kilometres of track, including resleepering, ballasting, tamping, and turnout replacement along key export–import corridors. Targeted yard rehabilitation is also planned, with a total investment of US\$480 million from 2026 to 2030. This initiative, funded through a mix of government resources, the Mutapa Investment Fund, and PPPs, is expected to deliver a 30% increase in train speed and a 50% reduction in derailments—transformative improvements for both safety and efficiency.

Recognising the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, the government will also invest US\$60 million in the rehabilitation of 60 key bridges and culverts between 2026 and 2028. This will ensure the resilience of the rail network against climate-related risks and support uninterrupted cargo flows.

Modernising the NRZ’s rolling stock is another cornerstone of the strategy. The procurement of 30 mainline locomotives at a cost of US\$210 million (2026–2029) will boost haulage capacity to over 6.7 million tons per year. In parallel, the acquisition of 841 new wagons and the refurbishment of 1,000 existing wagons (US\$120 million, 2026–2030) will enhance operational flexibility and reliability. For passenger services, the planned refurbishment of 50 coaches—including the introduction of air-conditioning and Wi-Fi—and the procurement of modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) at a cost of US\$25 million (2027–2030) will significantly improve the travel experience and attract new users.

Technological modernisation is also high on the agenda. The installation of an entry-level train control and automation system covering 1,000 km of track (US\$150 million, 2026–2029) will deliver real-time information access, enhanced safety, and greater automation—key ingredients for a modern, competitive railway system.

Importantly, the strategy recognises the need for strong partnerships with the private sector. Coal mining companies in Hwange, led by Hwange Colliery Company, will collaborate with the government to refurbish the critical railway line linking the coal fields to markets. This approach not only mobilises additional resources but also ensures that infrastructure investments are closely aligned with the needs of key industries.

For Africa’s tourism and logistics professionals, Zimbabwe’s rail revival offers valuable lessons and opportunities. The focus on regional integration, sustainable investment, and technological innovation reflects broader trends shaping the continent’s transport landscape. As Zimbabwe positions itself as a regional logistics hub, there are clear implications for cross-border trade, tourism flows, and the competitiveness of African destinations. The coming years will be pivotal, as the success of these initiatives could set new benchmarks for rail-led development across sub-Saharan Africa, inspiring similar transformations in neighbouring markets and opening up fresh avenues for business growth and collaboration.