The meeting of transport ministers from the United Republic of Tanzania, the Republic of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has concluded in Kinshasa, laying a solid foundation for accelerating the implementation of the modern electric standard gauge railway (SGR) project, which is expected to reshape the economic trajectory of East and Central Africa.
The meeting, held on 31 March 2026, brought together senior transport sector leaders from the three countries, led by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport of the DRC, Hon. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo.
At the meeting, the ministers formally approved the progress report of the feasibility study for the Msongati to Kindu section of the SGR railway, part of a wider project linking Tanzania through Burundi to eastern DRC. The move was described as crucial in opening economic opportunities and strengthening regional cooperation.
The SGR railway project is expected to connect the cities of Uvinza, Musongati, Gitega, Bujumbura, Uvira to Kindu, thereby facilitating the movement of cargo and passengers between the countries. The railway will also be an important link between landlocked countries and the Port of Dar es Salaam, which has remained the main trade gateway for the region.
Statistics show that the DRC leads the way in using the Port of Dar es Salaam, with over 5.9 million tonnes of cargo handled in the 2024/25 financial year. This makes the DRC an important trading partner for Tanzania, with expectations for further trade growth through the SGR project.
Speaking on behalf of the Tanzanian Minister of Transport, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Prof. Godius Kahyarara, stressed that the project is more than just transport infrastructure, but is a catalyst for shared development for the countries of the region. He explained that its implementation will increase the speed of trade, reduce transportation costs and enhance the international competitiveness of the Port of Dar es Salaam.
For their part, ministers from Burundi and the DRC expressed satisfaction with the progress made, pledging to continue to cooperate fully to ensure the timely implementation of the project. They also agreed to expedite the completion of the remaining studies and strengthen coordination through the regional transport institution.
