The Government of Mozambique has announced an ambitious plan to invest approximately €193.3 million (14 billion meticais) by 2030 to modernize and expand the country’s railway infrastructure. The investment aims to enhance the capacity of the southern and central railway systems, particularly focusing on increasing both passenger and cargo transport capabilities. The announcement was made by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, during the inauguration of three new locomotives in Maputo.
A major part of the investment will be directed towards the completion of the duplication of the remaining 25 kilometers of the Ressano Garcia railway line in Maputo. This strategic railway links Mozambique with neighboring South Africa and is crucial for both regional connectivity and economic integration. The government also intends to acquire more than 30 new passenger carriages, along with at least 250 wagons and 15 locomotives, to cater to the growing demand for both commuter and mineral transportation. These developments are seen as essential steps toward reinforcing the country’s transport infrastructure and ensuring long-term economic growth.
During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Matlombe emphasized that the three new locomotives are part of a larger order of 15, intended to significantly boost the southern and central rail systems. Valued at 422.4 million meticais (€5.8 million), the locomotives are already expected to improve rail transport in the Greater Maputo area. He further highlighted the positive community impact the expanded rail service will bring, especially by easing daily commutes and facilitating the movement of goods, which in turn supports local economic development.
The state-owned company Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM), which manages these railway systems, has shown substantial financial improvement. According to CFM’s chairman, Agostinho Langa, the company’s operating results increased by 55% in 2024, reaching 2.52 billion meticais (€34.7 million), up from 1.63 billion meticais (€22.5 million) in 2023. This performance, although provisional, is considered highly encouraging, particularly given the challenges faced during the year, including months of social unrest following post-election tensions.
CFM currently operates several key railway corridors, including the Ressano Garcia, Limpopo, and Goba lines, as well as the Beira Railway System, which includes the Sena, Machipanda, and Marromeu lines. It also manages key logistics infrastructure such as the Maputo manoeuvring area, general workshops, and major terminals for aluminium, fuel, cereal, and coal across various ports including Maputo, Quelimane, Nacala, and Pemba.
The government’s railway investment plan is part of a broader national strategy to modernize infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through improved logistics and transport services. As Mozambique continues to position itself as a vital regional trade corridor in southern Africa, these enhancements in rail infrastructure are expected to play a pivotal role in boosting cross-border trade, supporting the mining sector, and improving the everyday lives of Mozambicans through better transportation services.
