Harare–Mutare train service sparks backlash

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has come under fire after showcasing its refurbished passenger train service between Harare and Mutare, with critics slamming the so-called "luxury" cabins as substandard and poorly executed.

The train was unveiled ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, where Zimbabwe is seeking to market its Eastern Highlands region to international buyers and tour operators for the first time.

However, instead of generating excitement, the launch has sparked widespread criticism. Commentators described the cabins as a "disturbing" downgrade compared to the service that was operational more than two decades ago.

"I used one in 2001, on a first-class cabin that looked far better than this disturbing rubbish that NRZ is showcasing," one critic said, lamenting the parastatal's lack of seriousness.

The harshest rebuke was reserved for the presentation of the so-called luxury cabin, which featured dated sofas and a setup many described as unfit for a tourism showcase. "This 'luxury' cabin that NRZ is showcasing, where they bundled together sofas from the 80s, is an ugly display of sloth and corporate nonchalance. To think that people called a press event and even chowed drumsticks and samoosas to launch this should be a cause of serious reflection at the parastatal," the critic said.

Observers warned that such poor execution undermines Zimbabwe's tourism drive. "An event where we are selling a nation, more so where we are selling the Eastern Highlands for the first time, must be taken seriously. We expect global buyers, tour operators, and investors at this event – and this train cabin is the best we could put together?"

The criticism highlights broader concerns about NRZ's preparedness and commitment to modernising its services as Zimbabwe seeks to revive rail transport and boost the tourism sector.