Maputo Unveils New Locomotives, Boosting Regional Rail Connections and Modernisation
On 12 September 2025, the Mozambique Ports and Railways Company (CFM) marked a significant milestone in its modernisation journey with the inauguration of two advanced locomotives in Maputo. This event, held during the first Coordinating Council of the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, signals the arrival of the initial units in a larger batch of ten locomotives slated for delivery this year. The investment is a central piece of CFM’s wider Strategic Plan, focused on revitalising the country’s rail and port infrastructure and strengthening Mozambique’s role as a critical logistics hub for Southern Africa.
The ceremony, presided over by Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. João Matlombe, underscored the pivotal role that CFM plays in addressing the evolving demands of the logistics sector. Minister Matlombe praised CFM’s efforts to respond to market needs, especially those of neighbouring Zimbabwe and South Africa, and emphasised the broader necessity for strong, result-oriented public enterprises. He noted that these new locomotives are not merely additions to the fleet, but symbols of a larger commitment to driving national development, creating employment, and fostering regional integration.
The newly acquired locomotives—purchased in India at a cost of approximately USD 3.45 million each—reflect Mozambique’s ambition to modernise its rolling stock and rail-port equipment. Their arrival is expected to increase operational efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in regional trade. As part of CFM’s ongoing upgrade programme, these locomotives will improve the flow of goods through Mozambique’s key corridors, facilitating smoother transit for cargo bound for both domestic and cross-border destinations.
CFM’s Chairman, Eng. Agostinho Francisco Langa Júnior, expressed gratitude for the support received from financing partners, including the African Development Bank, Standard Bank, and BCI. He recognised the significance of the Minister’s attendance at the inauguration, noting it as a motivating factor for the company to continue advancing government objectives in transport and logistics. “With each new locomotive, we move closer to realising the vision of a modern, efficient, and integrated rail-port system that benefits both Mozambique and the wider region,” he stated.
For Africa’s travel and logistics professionals, these developments offer fresh opportunities and new efficiencies in regional commerce and passenger movement. The expanded fleet will better serve the growing demand for reliable rail transport, particularly on routes connecting to Zimbabwe and South Africa. These corridors are vital arteries for the movement of minerals, agricultural products, and manufactured goods, linking inland economies with the global marketplace through Mozambique’s strategic ports.
Beyond the immediate operational gains, the locomotive acquisition is a cornerstone of Mozambique’s broader strategy to position itself as a preferred gateway in Southern Africa. Enhanced rail infrastructure will not only boost freight volumes but also enable more seamless intermodal connections, opening possibilities for future passenger rail services and integrated tourism circuits. This modernisation drive is crucial for countries in the region seeking to diversify their economies and enhance their appeal for both investors and travellers.
The emphasis on equipping and upgrading rail and port assets comes at a time when regional integration and infrastructure development are high on Africa’s agenda. By investing in modern locomotives and building strong partnerships with international financial institutions, Mozambique demonstrates how targeted infrastructure spending can accelerate economic growth and improve connectivity across borders. It also sets a benchmark for other African nations eager to strengthen their own logistics networks and maximise the benefits of intra-African trade.
Looking ahead, the introduction of these locomotives is expected to catalyse further improvements in rail-port efficiency, reduce supply chain bottlenecks, and support Mozambique’s ambitions to become a logistics powerhouse. The move aligns with continental priorities of sustainable development, job creation, and the advancement of integrated, high-performance transport systems. For industry stakeholders, it is a clear signal that the future of African logistics—and by extension, the future of travel, tourism, and trade—will be shaped by modern, resilient, and interconnected infrastructure.
As CFM prepares to receive the remaining locomotives later this year, attention will turn to how these upgrades translate into tangible benefits for businesses, communities, and travellers across the region. The continued support from both public and private sector partners will be essential in ensuring that Mozambique’s railways not only keep pace with market demands but also set new standards for efficiency and service in the African logistics landscape.
