The Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) and the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) have signed a memorandum of understanding to integrate air and rail transport in the country. The initiative aims to improve services for passengers and cargo operators by linking airport and railway infrastructure. The agreement was signed in Dar es Salaam by TAA Director General, Mr Abdul Mombokaleo, and TRC Director General, Engineer Machibya M. Shiwa.
Speaking shortly after signing the memorandum, Engineer Machibya said the partnership will enable travellers to enter and exit airports more easily through railway services. He explained that this step is in line with directives from the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, who instructed TRC to establish stations with infrastructure that links railways to airports during the launch of the Kwala Freight Terminal. “A feasibility study at Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) has been completed, and for Msalato Airport, the process is ongoing. At Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), existing MGR rail infrastructure will be rehabilitated, and a new train station will be built,” he said.
Engineer Machibya further noted that these improvements will boost tourism, facilitate the transport of perishable goods, and reduce costs for passengers and freight operators.
For his part, TAA Director General Mr Abdul Mombokaleo said the partnership is a significant step for national development as it will strengthen both the aviation and railway sectors. He emphasised that the collaboration will contribute to economic growth, increase national revenue, and enhance the transport of passengers and cargo. It will also facilitate the movement of export goods.
He added that modern services such as remote check-in and drop-off will be introduced outside airports, enabling passengers and cargo to be transported directly from train stations to airports.
