Botswana Railways collaboration opportunity for passenger train services
In the twelfth issue of Railways Africa Magazine, an article entitled “Botswana Continues Strategic Rail Expansion and Infrastructure Enhancement” sheds light on Botswana’s ambitious rail sector developments. The Honourable Eric Mothibi Molale, Minister of Transport and Public Works for Botswana, revealed plans under consideration by the Ministry of Transport to revive passenger rail services, which were put on hold in March 2020. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand and enhance the country’s rail infrastructure, underscoring the government’s commitment to bolstering public transport solutions.
This week, Botswana Railways (BR), the statutory corporation established under the Botswana Railways Act [Cap 70:01], issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a unique partnership or collaboration opportunity aimed at reinstating their passenger rail services. This initiative seeks to enhance its provision of passenger train services, complementing its existing freight and containerised cargo transport solutions.
The EOI is specifically directed towards service providers in the market who are keen to explore a collaborative venture in passenger rail services. It aligns with Botswana Railways’ commitment to expanding and improving its transportation offerings. The procurement process for this partnership will be conducted through Open Domestic Bidding, exclusively available to Citizen Contractors in adherence to Section 76 of the Public Procurement Act.
A non-compulsory briefing session is scheduled for the 3rd of April, 2024, accessible via Microsoft Teams. The deadline for tender submissions is set for the 26th of April, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing Botswana’s rail transport infrastructure and services, offering an exciting opportunity for collaboration in the passenger rail sector.
