China proposes $1 billion investment in Tanzania-Zambia mineral route
The Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Du Xiaohui, has presented a $1 billion proposal to rehabilitate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway, popularly called the Tazara, to Zambia's Transport Minister, Frank Tayali.
The railway line, popularly called the Tazara, is known for being the major route connecting the Zambian copper belt to the Tanzanian port of Dar es Salaam.
“The Chinese side wants to use the PPP model to invest over US$1 billion in the coming years,” Xiaohui is quoted by the South China Morning Post.
A technical and inspection team further presented a report on the assessment of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority as part of efforts to kick-start the project.
Zambia's Transport Minister, Frank Tayali, expressed enthusiasm about the report, highlighting that Chinese experts would be collaborating with Zambian labour based on the recommendations outlined in the inspection report.
The initiation of the reconstruction project dates back to 2022, following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s promise to rehabilitate the railway as a symbol of his country’s continued friendship on the African continent.
The Tazara railway, originally constructed in the 1970s with Chinese assistance, has been a crucial artery for transportation in the region. However, over the years, the infrastructure has faced challenges, necessitating substantial investments for its modernization and revitalization.
