MR94, the government infrastructure manager for Malawi, is set to participate in the upcoming Southern African Railway Association (SARA) Conference and Exhibition, where the company will outline its exciting plans for enhancing rail connectivity across Malawi and connecting with its neighbours.
“We’re revitalising MR94 with a bold vision for Malawi’s rail infrastructure,” says Chapusa Phiri, acting company secretary for Malawi Railways 1994. This includes the rehabilitation of the railway line from Marka, on the Mozambique border, to Angonia, via Nsanje and several other key locations. The first phase involves the improvement of a 72-kilometre stretch from Marka to Mangochi, followed by an extension from Sandama all the way to Limbe.
Additionally, MR94 is planning the rehabilitation of the line from the capital, Lilongwe, to Mchinji, on the Zambian border. This is crucial for improving trade connections between the two countries. A feasibility study is also in the works to explore the possibility of expanding the rail network to the north, with the aim of bringing Malawi’s northern territories into the rail grid and connecting to Tanzania.
These projects are being funded by the Malawi government and through concessionaire agreements. The focus is on implementing a Cape Gauge, 20.5 tonnes per axle, to ensure seamless connectivity across the nation and with its neighbouring countries.
“We are confident that once the board is in place, which will be very soon, before the SARA event, these projects will begin to materialise, and Malawi will be on the path to recovery in terms of railways,” says Phiri.
At the SARA Conference, MR94 representatives will be eager to connect with experts in track laying, track rehabilitation and signalling suppliers. Phiri encourages industry players to engage with their team at the conference to discuss the future of rail infrastructure in the region.
“We are looking forward to meeting industry players, so that we can sit down, discuss, and envision the future of rail in this part of Africa,” adds Phiri.
The SARA Conference and Exhibition is the exclusive railway event hosted by the railway operators in the region and represents a pivotal opportunity to align the visions and strategies of regional railway authorities and stakeholders. Join MR94 at the event to be part of the discussion shaping the future of rail connectivity and trade in Southern Africa.
To find out how to best position your business and engage with the MR94 team at the upcoming SARA Conference and Exhibition, please be in touch with our events team via our website: https://www.sararailconference.com/
