ZAMBIA RAILWAYS LIMITED ENGAGES STRATEGIC PARTNERS AT THE MINING INDABA
Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) participated in the Investing in African Mining Indaba where the company engaged with leading mining companies, development finance institutions (DFIs) and suppliers of railway equipment to advance strategic partnerships that support Zambia’s mining and logistics sectors.
The Mining Indaba which was held from 9th to 12th February 2026 in Cape Town , South Africa , provided a premier platform for dialogue among key stakeholders . During engagements with various stakeholders at the event, Zambia Railways highlighted its critical role as a strategic logistics partner to the mining industry, emphasizing the importance of rail transport for bulk mineral exports including copper, cobalt and other commodities.
ZRL held productive discussions with mining operators focused on expanding rail freight volumes, developing long-term haulage agreements and enhancing integrated logistics solutions.
Further, ZRL’s meetings with DFIs centered on mobilizing capital for railway rehabilitation and modernization projects as well as investment in rolling stock acquisition and refurbishment.
ZRL also engaged with international suppliers of locomotives and wagons. Discussions explored rolling stock acquisition , refurbishment and technical capacity building to enhance operational efficiency and safety standards.
With copper production expected to increase significantly over the coming years, rail transport will play a pivotal role in reducing logistics costs, minimizing road congestion, and lowering carbon emissions associated with bulk mineral transportation.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event , ZRL Managing Director Eng. Cuthbert Malindi reaffirmed the strategic role of rail transport in supporting the Government of the Republic of Zambia’s agenda to increase copper production to 3 million tonnes per annum by 2031.
“The attainment of the 3 million tonnes copper production target by 2031 will require active participation of rail transport in the haulage of mining products . Zambia Railways stands ready to partner with mining companies, government and development partners to provide the transport backbone necessary to achieve this national objective.” said Eng. Malindi
Eng. Malindi further thanked the Government of the Republic of Zambia for the continued support to reviving the rail sector in Zambia.
Zambia Railways remains committed to building strong partnerships that unlock value across the mining supply chain and contribute to sustainable national development.
