China Backs $1.4 Billion Revision of Historic Tanzania–Zambia Railway

Zambia has embarked on an ambitious modernization of the historic Tanzania–Zambia Railway, marking one of the most consequential infrastructure upgrades in the region in decades. The 1.4 billion dollar overhaul was launched during the first visit of a Chinese premier to Zambia in almost thirty years, underscoring the strategic importance of the rail corridor for both regional trade and China’s long standing partnership with East and Southern Africa. The TAZARA line has served as a lifeline between Zambia’s Copperbelt and the Indian Ocean since the 1970s, and its revitalization is expected to reshape transport efficiency and mineral export dynamics across the continent.

The project’s inauguration was attended by Zambia’s President, China’s Premier, and Tanzania’s Vice President, reflecting high level political commitment behind the upgrade. This initiative follows a three nation agreement signed in September to rehabilitate TAZARA, which China originally financed and built under the leadership of Mao Zedong. By committing to this extensive modernization effort, China is reaffirming its role in supporting African economic development, particularly through infrastructure that directly enhances trade flows. The 1,860 kilometer railway currently operates well below its designed capacity, and the rehabilitation will include improvements aimed at restoring operational reliability, increasing speeds, and enabling heavier cargo loads.

A major motivation for the upgrade is to alleviate chronic congestion at border crossings where most copper and general freight have shifted to road transport due to the rail line’s deterioration. With copper production increasing steadily in both Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the pressure on logistics networks has intensified. Restoring TAZARA’s performance will open a more efficient export pathway to the port of Dar es Salaam, reduce haulage costs, and streamline the movement of bulk commodities. The revamped line will also introduce new competitive dynamics, particularly as it will stand alongside the United States and European Union backed Lobito Corridor, which is positioning itself as an Atlantic facing alternative for regional mineral exports.

Once completed, the modernized railway is expected to significantly enhance East West connectivity, support rising mineral output, and foster deeper regional integration. Improved rail transport could reduce transport bottlenecks, enhance investor confidence in Zambia and Tanzania’s mining sectors, and increase the overall competitiveness of African mineral supply chains. Strengthening strategic infrastructure such as TAZARA may also stimulate broader economic activity by lowering trade barriers, accelerating industrial development, and reinforcing Africa’s role in global commodities markets.

Mini Glossary

• TAZARA: The Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority, operator of the rail line connecting Zambia to the port of Dar es Salaam.
• Copperbelt: A mineral rich region in Zambia known for its extensive copper deposits and mining operations.
• Logistics Congestion: Delays and inefficiencies in the movement of goods due to overloaded transport routes or border bottlenecks.
• Corridor: A designated trade route that connects regions through transport infrastructure such as railways, roads, or ports.