Tanzania Unveils 541-km Modern Railway to Boost Trade

Tanzania has launched a 541-km modern railway built by Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi. The railway, part of a larger 2,561-km network, aims to enhance domestic and regional trade. Funded partly by a $1.46 billion loan from Standard Chartered Bank, the project reflects the government's drive to improve infrastructure.

Tanzania on Thursday unveiled a 541-km modern standard gauge railway linking its administrative and commercial capitals, a significant step in the government's push to develop transport infrastructure. Built by Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi, the project is part of a larger initiative to upgrade the nation's connectivity.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan inaugurated the electric train services at a ceremony in Dar es Salaam, proceeding on a four-hour journey to Dodoma. Estimated at $3.1 billion, the line constitutes sections of a planned 2,561-km rail network designed to enhance trade both domestically and regionally.

The project received partial funding from a $1.46 billion loan agreement signed with Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania in 2020. President Hassan, addressing residents at a Dar es Salaam station stop, highlighted the ongoing efforts to extend the railway further to Kigoma, aiming to strengthen ties and commerce with neighboring countries.