Hey amigos! This Thursday (Nov 20) in Lusaka, the Chinese premier Li Qiang joined Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Tanzanian Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi to break ground on a major upgrade of the TAZARA Railway 🚆.
Originally launched in 1975, the TAZARA Railway stitches together the Chinese mainland, Tanzania and Zambia—from the port of Dar es Salaam to the copper belt of Zambia. In September 2024, the three leaders—Chinese President Xi Jinping, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan—signed an MoU in Beijing to kickstart this revitalization.
Why it matters:
- Trade turbocharge: Faster, safer trains will move copper, minerals and crops in record time.
- Economic booster: A new prosperity belt along the tracks could spark fresh investment and jobs.
- Local impact: "Small and beautiful" projects in healthcare and farming will lift communities along the line.
Next steps include high-quality construction, better customs and inspection systems, plus improved roads and ports—what experts call "hard" and "soft" connectivity. For young business minds and globe-trotters, this could open the door to new Africa-Asia opportunities! 🌍
Keep an eye on TAZARA’s makeover—it’s not just a railway. It’s the lifeline of regional growth, powered by China-Africa teamwork. Who’s ready to ride day one? 😉
Reference(s):
China signs agreement with Zambia, Tanzania to modernize TAZARA rail
cgtn.com
