Transport minister champions rail expansion to boost Africa's economy

Minister urges strategic shift from mere discussion to tangible delivery

- BANELE GININDZA

TRANSPORT Minister Barbara Creecy has set the tone for a transformative approach to rail transport in Africa, urging a shift from mere discussion to tangible delivery.

Speaking at the opening of the Southern African Railways Association (SARA) International Rail Conference 2025 on Tuesday, Creecy positioned rail as a critical driver of continental integration, economic growth, and sustainable mobility.

Creecy said the development of a comprehensive National Rail Master Plan was strategically aligned with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Rail Master Plan and aimed to guide rail transformation over the next 30 years.

She highlighted the ongoing developments that signify progress in African rail infrastructure, including the Lobito Corridor in Angola, the Nacala Corridor spanning Mozambique and Malawi, the Beitbridge-Bulawayo Railway in Zimbabwe, and the Tazara project that connects Tanzania and Zambia.

These advancements, she stated, were the result of strategic investments and essential policy reforms designed to foster a future filled with high-speed rail projects, urban commuter expansions, and modernised freight corridors.

"Already we are witnessing vital investments in upgrading and expanding rail networks across Africa," Creecy said.