TAZARA Revitalisation Set to Safeguard Zambia’s Road Infrastructure
Zambia Plans Major Cargo Shift to Rail as Part of TAZARA Rehabilitation Strategy
Transport and Logistics Minister Frank Tayali says the ongoing revitalisation of the Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) will significantly reduce the volume of heavy cargo transported by road, helping preserve the country’s road infrastructure.
Speaking in the National Assembly in response to a question from Shiwang’andu Member of Parliament Stephen Kampyongo, Mr. Tayali explained that heavy cargo is one of the leading causes of road degradation.
Shifting these loads to the railway will therefore play a crucial role in extending the lifespan of Zambia’s roads.
Mr. Tayali added that the Government intends to introduce a deliberate policy requiring most heavy cargo to be transported by rail, describing rail transport as both safer and more cost-effective than road haulage.
He also noted that the 300 TAZARA employees set to be transferred to the concessionaire will receive their terminal benefits as they transition into their new roles.
According to the minister, the long-term benefits of the TAZARA partnership will become increasingly evident as rail operations expand and heavy cargo begins to move off the road network.
