Africa-Press – Botswana. A new era of economic growth and regional integration is on the horizon for Southern Africa, with the development of Mmamabula- Lephalale Rail Link system.
Talking on the ‘Transport Logistics as an enabler to the economy of Botswana’ at Mmamabula-Lephalale Rail Link investor forum in Gaborone on Wednesday, Botswana Chamber of Mines CEO, Mr Charles Siwawa said the modern infrastructure project was set to transform trade and connectivity between South Africa and Botswana.
Such, he said would also create substantial value for Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations by improving intra-regional trade, lowering transportation costs and enhancing supply chain efficiencies.
The rail system, linking the mining Lephalale region in South Africa with Mmamabula in Botswana, is expected to play a pivotal role in the efficient movement of goods, including coal, soda ash, copper, manganese, and other vital exports, which are essential to the economies of both countries and the broader SADC region.
“This project will reduce transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiencies, and strengthen the region’s competitive position on the global stage,” he said.
Mr Siwawa also said one of the rail link’s most anticipated benefits was the shift from road transport which was plagued by high costs and logistical challenges.
Mr Wilson Mogoba of Transnet South Africa noted that Mmamabula-Lephalale Rail Link was part of a broader plan to create a new logistics corridor, connecting the mines to the ports.
He said the project, costing approximately US$1.125 million per annum in rail capacity for Botswana, was technically and financially viable.
However, he said neither Botswana Railways nor Transnet currently had the capital for such an undertaking, “and as such, private sector participation will be necessary for its successful implementation.”
Botswana Railways Acting General Manager, Ms Chelesile Malele, emphasized the forward-thinking approach of the rail link.
“This project represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of regional transportation and trade. By providing an efficient means of transporting goods across borders, it will play a crucial role in regional economic integration, positioning Botswana as a key hub for commerce and logistics,” she said.
She also highlighted the environmental benefits of the project, noting that the rail system was designed to be a greener alternative to road transport.
She further reiterated that Mmamabula-Lephalale Rail Link system promised to be a game-changer for Southern Africa, enhancing economic integration, improving transportation efficiency, and paving the way for a more connected and prosperous future for the region.
Ms Malele reiterated Botswana Railways’ essential role in the country’s economic development.
The investor forum, which saw participation from various stakeholders, underscored the collective commitment to advancing rail connectivity in the region. Among the attendees were representatives from Eswatini and Transnet Rails, who recognised the project’s potential to unlock investment opportunities and shape the future of transportation infrastructure in Southern Africa.
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