Tanzania, China, and Zambia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding the improvement of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) to enhance the transport of goods and passengers between Tanzania, Zambia, and other parts of East and Central Africa.
The signing ceremony took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on September 4, 2024, and was witnessed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, and the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema.
A press release from the Tanzanian State House explained that President Samia highlighted the importance of this agreement for regional development after the signing.
“This agreement is a crucial step towards improving our transport and trade infrastructure, which is a vital link between our countries,” the statement reads. “Our relationship with China is longstanding and historical; we must continue to strengthen it for the benefit of our people.”
This event occurred during President Samia’s official visit to China, which began on September 2 and is expected to conclude on September 6, 2024. Samia is in China, participating in the China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Additionally, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised China’s commitment to strengthening this strategic partnership and pledged that China is ready to continue working with Tanzania and Zambia for sustainable development and the welfare of the people.
The single-track railway, TAZARA, built between 1970 and 1975 with an interest-free loan from the Chinese government, symbolised China’s support for newly independent African nations. Its main goal was to help Zambia export copper and cobalt without relying on colonial Rhodesia or apartheid South Africa.
During construction, over 160 workers, including 64 Chinese nationals, died after bee attacks. Although once Africa’s longest railway, the line has deteriorated over time. In December, it was announced that China Civil & Engineering and Construction, the company behind the original project, would assess its revitalisation feasibility.
