Chiwenga's urges coal miners to support railway revival

Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has called on coal mining companies in Hwange and the broader north-western region to pool resources and support the rehabilitation of the Victoria Falls-Bulawayo railway line, stressing that such collaboration would strengthen the mining sector, boost tourism, and ease pressure on the nation's road infrastructure.

Speaking at the recently concluded 28th Mining, Engineering and Transport Expo (Mine Entra) in Bulawayo, VP Chiwenga highlighted the growing strain on roads caused by the heavy reliance on road transport for bulk minerals such as coal, chrome, and platinum. He urged mining companies to take a proactive role in restoring critical transport infrastructure, rather than waiting for government-led initiatives.

"It is high time that all our coal fields in the north come together to help rebuild and rehabilitate the National Railways of Zimbabwe on the Victoria Falls-Bulawayo line," Chiwenga said. "You don't have to wait for others to do it for you; take the initiative yourselves. As the Government, we will sign an agreement to ensure you recover your costs. We need to start thinking outside the box. It is up to you and me to act, rather than wait for miracles. We have these resources; let's use them wisely."

The Vice-President noted that a fully functional rail system is essential for industrial activity, agriculture, mining, and regional trade. He explained that efficient rail transport lowers business costs, reduces pressure on the road network, and facilitates the smooth movement of bulk cargo.

According to government plans, the rehabilitation programme will involve upgrading tracks, signalling systems, rolling stock, and ultimately expanding lines to serve new industrial and mining zones. Zimbabwe's rail network spans approximately 3,000 to 3,400 kilometres, but its operational capacity has been severely constrained by aging infrastructure and widespread vandalism, particularly on electrified lines.

VP Chiwenga's appeal coincides with the government's finalisation of a US$533 million deal with China Railway International Group for a major overhaul and expansion of the national railway system, including a new Harare-Beitbridge line. Additionally, the Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has signalled willingness to lend US$115 million to restore 254 kilometres of strategic network, procure nine locomotives and 315 wagons, and overhaul communication systems.

Currently, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) transports just 2.3 million tonnes of cargo annually, far below its 18 million-tonne capacity and the 14 million tonnes moved during the 1990s. VP Chiwenga said reviving the railway would not only support mining logistics but also create jobs, drive industrialisation, and support downstream economic activities.

He further emphasised the potential of rail for tourism, highlighting that efficient passenger train services along scenic routes such as Victoria Falls could boost the country's tourism sector.

"But at the same time, those who would also want to go by train can see the beauty of our country and go with the passenger trains to Victoria Falls," he said.

Industry analysts note that joint investment between coal miners and the NRZ could significantly reduce haulage costs, improve operational efficiency, and ease the burden on heavily trafficked roads. Zimbabwe's strategic location as a gateway between Southern Africa's mineral hinterland and ports in Mozambique and South Africa adds further impetus for urgent railway rehabilitation.

VP Chiwenga concluded by urging industry players to embrace innovative thinking and self-driven development models, underscoring the importance of private-sector participation in modernising Zimbabwe's transport network and accelerating national economic growth.