The Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) has outlined progress in its ongoing revitalisation programme, confirming that rehabilitation works have now moved into an active implementation phase as the authority works to restore safe, reliable and efficient railway services.
In a year-end update, TAZARA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Bruno Ching’andu acknowledged the operational challenges experienced during 2025, citing infrastructure limitations and rolling-stock constraints that affected service reliability. He noted that passengers, freight customers and communities along the corridor were impacted during the year.
According to the authority, the revitalisation programme has progressed beyond planning and is now under way following the mobilisation of technical resources by TAZARA’s strategic partner, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The programme was officially launched in November 2025, after which CCECC began mobilising equipment, technical personnel and supporting resources in preparation for phased rehabilitation works along the railway corridor.
Engineering teams are currently undertaking detailed infrastructure audits to assess the condition of track, bridges, culverts, signalling and related assets. These assessments are intended to inform the prioritisation of rehabilitation works based on safety considerations, operational impact and long-term sustainability.
TAZARA has indicated that the revitalisation will be implemented in phases, with improvements expected to be progressive rather than immediate. Temporary service adjustments may continue as rehabilitation works advance.
The authority has also recognised the resilience and professionalism of its employees during a challenging period, while thanking customers and the public for their patience and continued support.
Looking ahead, TAZARA expressed confidence that the revitalisation programme will restore the railway’s role as a dependable regional transport backbone, supporting passenger movement, freight logistics and regional economic integration.
