Through its key partnerships with NRZ National Railways of Zimbabwe, CFM Caminhos de Ferro de Mocambique and Traxtion, Unitrans Africa is spurring trade in Africa by offering a dedicated rail link between Maputo Port and three major Zimbabwean trade hubs, Harare, Bulawayo and Gweru. Until now this key section of rail has been largely underutilised and is vital for providing access to trade routes across the globe.
Operational since the 16th June, the new rail link enables importers and exporters to utilise Maputo’s multi-purpose deep-water port, connecting customers in the hinterland with their global trade partners and vice versa. Africa as a continent rich in mineral wealth has high export demand for use in the production of finished goods. In correlation these facilities, alongside a growing population, create demand for the import of goods and services in support thereof. This new transport service will be a game-changer for relevant stakeholders and underscores Unitrans Africa’s commitment to driving sustainable growth within sub-Saharan Africa.
“Unitrans Africa is focussed on accelerating Africa’s growth,” says Unitrans Africa CEO Rob Hayworth, “and opportunities that involve public private partnership such as this dedicated service are testament to our commitment to our communities and customers.”
As well as promoting new trade opportunities for customers in both Zimbabwe and Maputo, this dedicated rail service aims to reduce transit times, increase efficiency and offer a more reliable service. Beyond this the service compliments initiatives to improve health and safety through lightening the load on an already overburdened road infrastructure. The positive economic impact of this more cost- and time-efficient trade corridor will be felt throughout the region.
Beyond this and in line with global focus on sustainability, an improved environmental impact exists, as rail transport reduces like for like carbon emissions by nearly 80% in comparison to road freight.
“We look forward to growing and developing this positive trade solution as we engage and respond to our customers’ changing needs. Agility and innovation is core to Unitrans Africa’s business strategy,” says Hayworth.
Maputo Port’s enhanced trade capacity is proving vital to its renewed position as a global transit hub, thanks to its strategic position in the region, with extensive road and rail connections throughout Southern Africa, and shipping routes to the Middle East, Europe and East Asia. Unitrans Africa’s rail corridor between Mozambique and Zimbabwe will play a key role in promoting Maputo Port’s standing amongst its global and African trade partners.
About Unitrans Africa:
Unitrans Africa is a diversified contractual logistics company serving the needs of selected sub-Saharan African markets. The company’s successful business model incorporates the design, implementation and ongoing provision of supply chain solutions for its customers.
Africa presents great commercial opportunities for those with a bold vision and persistent drive to find the right way. Unitrans Africa has demonstrated this ability and ongoing desire to leave a positive mark on the economic development of Sub-Sahara Africa serving more than 650 million people.
