TAZARA expects the Mbeya–Makambako section to reopen on 1 December 2026, subject to completion of recovery and restoration works and confirmation that the line is safe for train operations.
In the meantime the Mukuba Passenger Train operates locally in Zambia between New Kapiri Mposhi and Nakonde, and the Udzungwa Passenger Train serves local passengers between Makambako and Dar es Salaam.
- The Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) has suspended passenger and freight train services between Mbeya and Makambako until 1 December 2026, when the section is expected to reopen.
- The suspension follows the freight train accident of 4 November 2026 on the Wanging’ombe–Makambako section, which left several kilometres of track damaged.
- Copper-carrying freight train No. 726, travelling from Mbeya towards Makambako, derailed, and 14 wagons overturned.
- TAZARA reported the loss of two lives in the accident and said investigations into the full circumstances are ongoing.
- Cross-border train services between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri Mposhi have been interrupted.
- The Mukuba Passenger Train runs locally between New Kapiri Mposhi and Nakonde, and the Udzungwa Passenger Train serves Makambako to Dar es Salaam, until further notice.
The Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) regrets to inform its esteemed passengers and the general public that no passenger or freight train services will operate between Mbeya and Makambako until 1 December 2026, when the section is expected to reopen. This follows the freight train accident of 4 November 2026, which left several kilometres of track damaged.
The closure has interrupted cross-border train services between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri Mposhi. Passengers whose journeys require passage through the affected section are advised to make alternative arrangements during this period.
In the meantime, the Mukuba Passenger Train will operate locally in Zambia between New Kapiri Mposhi and Nakonde, while the Udzungwa Passenger Train has been repurposed to serve local passengers between Makambako and Dar es Salaam. These interim arrangements will remain in effect until further notice.
The accident, which resulted in the derailment and overturning of 14 wagons, occurred on the Wanging’ombe–Makambako section and involved copper-carrying freight train No. 726, which was travelling from Mbeya towards Makambako en route to Dar es Salaam.
TAZARA deeply regrets the loss of two lives in the accident and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Investigations into the full circumstances of the accident are ongoing.
The anticipated reopening date remains subject to completion of recovery and restoration works and confirmation that the line is safe for train operations. TAZARA will provide further updates on the reopening and resumption of affected services.
We sincerely apologise for the disruption and inconvenience and thank our passengers and the public for their patience and understanding.
Railways Africa extends its condolences to the families and friends of the two people who died in the derailment on the Wanging’ombe–Makambako section, and to everyone at TAZARA affected by the loss.
