Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, says he is impressed with the turnout of Zambian stakeholders in the railway sector at the 2024 Southern Africa Railways Association Conference and Exhibition, which is going on in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Speaking when he toured various stands at the exhibition centre, which include the Zambia Railways and Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) yesterday, Mr. Tayali said the number of stakeholders that have turned up for this year’s exhibition should result in enhanced service delivery in the sector.
And Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Board Chairperson, Emmanuel Hachipuka, said strategic partnerships are critical to attain the desired growth in the rail sub-sector.
“The Governments on their own are unable to fund rail projects due to the capital intensiveness of the rail sub-sector especially that they have to attend to other competing priority needs and this is why networking with the private sector becomes key,” said Mr. Hachipuka.
He said the Railway Board Chairperson said the rail sub-sector has continued to experience dynamics in business operations as well as capacity challenges over the years.
Meanwhile, TAZARA Managing Director Bruno Ching’andu said Africa is committed to doing its part to create an efficient, connected, and modern rail sector to all and that the Southern Africa Railways Association Conference (SARA) 2024 has created a platform where sector stakeholders share their experiences.
And Zambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Mazuba Monze, said the conference is important as it brings different stakeholders who are actively engaging with railways experts in embracing technological advancements and fostering a conducive investment.
Ms. Monze said the rail sub-sector can unlock various opportunities that can add to economic growth, connectivity, and prosperity across the continent.
This is contained in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today by First Secretary Press and Public Relations , at Zambia’s High Commission in South Africa, Tamara Nyirenda.
By Eva Hatontola
