Chinese Firms Engage Zambia on Railway Upgrade

By Masauso Mkwayaya

Two Chinese companies have held a series of engagements with Government on upgrading and modernising the railway system.

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says the railway system needs upgrading to move heavy cargo from roads to reduce damage.

Speaking at State House today when he met officials from Anhui Gangtai Manufacture Group and China Railway Rollingstock Corporation, President HICHILEMA said the upgrade is timely as the local railway system needs to align with the upcoming rehabilitation of the TAZARA railway.

He said Zambia, Tanzania, and CHINA have already signed Memoranda of Understanding on the project.

The President also called for the investment to include passenger trains.

And, China Railway Rollingstock Corporation vice General Manager WANG YONGSHENG said his company has 50 years of experience in designing, manufacturing, and maintaining modern locomotives and railway systems.

Mr. WANG said his company is ready to invest in Zambia’s railway sector.

And Anhui Gangtai Manufacture Group Chairperson ZHANG WEI said they chose Zambia for investment due to its good leadership and conducive investment climate.

Mr. ZHANG also commended Zambia for championing alternative energy sources to address the electricity deficit.

He said his company is ready to collaborate with Zambia and share modern technology.

Zambia’s Ambassador to China IVAN ZYUULU said the visit of the two companies follows engagements prompted by the Zambian Embassy.