Unitrans Africa says it is spurring on trade in Africa by offering a dedicated rail link between the Port of Maputo and three major Zimbabwean trade hubs, Harare, Bulawayo and Gweru.Until now, this key section of rail has been largely underutilised and is vital for providing access to trade routes across the globe. The railway line is in partnership with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), Caminhos de Ferro de Mocambique (CFM), and Traxtion. Operations started in mid-June.It enables importers and exporters to utilise Maputo’s multipurpose deepwater port, connecting customers in the hinterland with their global trade partners and vice versa. As a continent rich in mineral wealth, there is high demand for rail capability.This new transport service will be a game-changer for relevant stakeholders and underscores Unitrans Africa’s commitment to driving sustainable growth within sub-Saharan Africa, says Unitrans Africa CEO Rob Hayworth. “We are focused on accelerating Africa’s growth, and opportunities that involve public private partnership such as this dedicated service are testament to our commitment to our communities and customers.”In addition to promoting new trade opportunities for customers in both Zimbabwe and Maputo, Hayworth says the service aims to reduce transit times, increase efficiency, and offer a more reliable service. “Beyond this, it complements initiatives to improve health and safety through lightening the load on an already overburdened road infrastructure. The positive economic impact of this more cost- and time-efficient trade corridor will be felt throughout the region.” The positive environmental impact is an additional advantage, says Hayworth, pointing out that rail transport reduces like for like carbon emissions by nearly 80% in comparison to road freight.“We look forward to growing and developing this positive trade solution as we engage and respond to our customers’ changing needs. Agility and innovation are core to Unitrans Africa’s business strategy,” he adds.“Maputo port’s enhanced trade capacity is proving vital to its renewed position as a global transit hub, thanks to its strategic position in the region, with extensive road and rail connections throughout southern Africa, and shipping routes to the Middle East, Europe and East Asia. This rail corridor will play a key role in promoting Maputo port.”
