Limpopo rail line reopens after flood damage

The full reopening of the Limpopo railway line linking Mozambique with Zimbabwe and Botswana has raised hopes for improved regional trade and cargo movement following months of disruption caused by severe flooding.

The strategic rail corridor, which connects inland Southern African countries to the Port of Maputo, had been closed since mid-January after heavy floods damaged key sections of railway infrastructure in Mozambique.

According to Emidio Bata, the successful rehabilitation of the line marks a major milestone for regional connectivity and economic recovery.

"Following the successful completion of extension rehabilitation and restoration works on the railway line infrastructure, full operational clearance has been granted for the Limpopo railway line along its entire length effective May 1, 2026," Batá said in a public notice issued on Thursday.

He said rail traffic had now been fully restored for both passenger and freight services along the routes from Maputo to Chicualacuala, connecting the Zimbabwean and Botswana corridors, as well as the Maputo-Xinavane route.

"The milestone marks the conclusion of a period of service interruption necessitated by severe flooding and inundation that significantly affected the region and compromised the integrity of the railway line structure. Through coordinated technical efforts and operational commitment, normal service conditions have been restored," Batá said.

The reopening is expected to ease pressure on regional logistics and supply chains after months of halted cargo movement between the Port of Maputo and neighbouring countries.

The corridor is regarded as one of Southern Africa's key trade arteries, facilitating the transportation of minerals, fuel, agricultural produce and other cargo between inland economies and the Indian Ocean coast.

Batá thanked customers, communities and stakeholders for their patience during the restoration period.

"We express sincere appreciation to all customers, partners and the general public for their understanding, patience and cooperation throughout the period of disruption," he said.

He also acknowledged the role played by institutions and local communities that assisted in the rehabilitation works.

Meanwhile, National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) confirmed that rail traffic had resumed on the Chicualacuala-Maputo corridor.

"NRZ would like to thank its customers for their understanding during the time the line was closed," the railway operator said.

The restoration of the railway line is expected to boost trade efficiency, reduce transport bottlenecks and strengthen regional economic integration across Southern Africa.