The CCECC is making a $1.4 billion investment over 30 years to upgrade the TAZARA railway, enhancing critical mineral exports from Central Africa. This decision follows a detailed assessment of the railway’s challenges and aligns with China’s commitment to support TAZARA’s revival amidst growing competition from the U.S. and other transport corridors.
The China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has announced a substantial investment of $1.4 billion to upgrade the Tanzania-Zambia railway (TAZARA) through a 30-year concession agreement. This initiative responds to the increased competition for Africa’s vital minerals, emphasizing the importance of efficient transport routes for copper exports from Central Africa.
TAZARA serves as a crucial line for transporting copper, offering a strategic alternative to South African logistics challenges that have historically obstructed the export of copper and cobalt. Bruno Ching’andu, the CEO of the TAZARA Authority, emphasized the significance of this decision, stating that it comes after a thorough evaluation of the longstanding challenges faced by the railway, highlighting the need for prompt improvements.
Last year, China confirmed its support for the revitalization of TAZARA, coinciding with the United States’ investment in a competing transport corridor known as Lobito, which is linked to an Angolan port. This investment by China signifies a pivotal move towards enhancing mineral transport infrastructure in the region.
The $1.4 billion investment by CCECC in the Tanzania-Zambia railway represents a crucial step in addressing logistical challenges for copper exports in Central Africa. The revitalization of TAZARA highlights the competitive landscape for mineral transport infrastructure in Africa, particularly amidst strategic investments from international stakeholders like the United States. This development illustrates the ongoing significance of efficient transport routes for the continent’s resource economy.
Original Source: thefinancialexpress.com.bd
