Botswana continues strategic rail expansion and infrastructure enhancement
The Honourable Eric Mothibi Molale, Minister of Transport and Public Works for Botswana has indicated that the Ministry of Transport is contemplating the reinstatement of passenger rail services suspended in March 2020.
The Minister highlighted the inauguration of the Limpopo route by Botswana Railways, with trains extending to Chicualacuala. This route serves as an alternative for the import and export of commodities such as coal, sugar, and fuel, which are transported from Mozambique through Zimbabwe to Botswana. As of December 2023, a total of 10,410 tonnes of coal, 7,565 tonnes of sugar, and 14,260 tonnes of fuel were transported via this route.
The strategic partnership between Botswana Railways and Transnet Freight Rail was finalised in December 2023 after some negotiations. This pivotal agreement allows for trains to reach their destinations in South Africa directly, rather than terminating at Mafikeng. This enhancement will improve turnaround times and the efficiency of Botswana Railways trains.
Furthermore, plans are in place to establish a maintenance facility for the Botswana Railways rolling stock. The process of engaging a private investor for this project is currently ongoing, with the project expected to start in the forthcoming financial year. This development aims to enhance the organisation’s maintenance capabilities and lead to the creation of additional employment opportunities.
Botswana Railways is also forging partnerships with key stakeholders such as Botswana Ash to maintain its rolling stock. These collaborations are set to open new revenue streams, provide capital and offer technical expertise to Botswana Railways.
Trans-Kalahari Railway Project
The process of identifying a private partner to finance the feasibility and development of the Trans-Kalahari Railway Project is ongoing. The Expression of Interest was floated from September 2023 to November 2023. The Request for Proposal (RFP) is anticipated to be issued to the shortlisted potential investors by the end of March 2024.
To strengthen the viability of the route, a dry port will be constructed at Ghanzi to consolidate cargo from nearby mines and transport it by rail to Walvis Bay Port for international markets. In the long term, the construction of a spur line to these mines will be considered.
Mmamabula-Lephalale Railway Link
The feasibility study for the Mmamabula-Lephalale Railway link was completed in December 2023. The study has confirmed the optimised route alignment and indicative financial results show that the project is feasible. An Expression of Interest (EOI) to identify a private investor who will provide funding towards the development of the Mmamabula-Lephalale Railway link has been issued. In the meantime, a Memorandum of Understanding between Botswana and South Africa is still under consideration to facilitate cooperation in the execution of this project.
Mosetse – Kazungula – Livingstone
A bankable feasibility study for the Mosetse – Kazungula – Livingstone route has commenced and is expected to be delivered in June 2025. The two member states, Botswana and Zambia, are expected to sign the Sponsors Agreement in the coming financial year. As a way of reducing traffic on the North-South Corridor and safeguarding roads from being damaged by heavy trucks, the Ministry will construct a dry port at Mosetse village. Cargo will then be offloaded from trucks and consolidated for transportation by rail, including backhaulage.
