The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has officially commenced Phase Two of the Central Railway Line rehabilitation project under the Tanzania Intermodal and Rail Development Project (TIRP-2), with funding support from the World Bank.
On 18 July 2025, TRC’s environmental unit, led by Dr Veronica Mirambo, began engaging key regional stakeholders, introducing the project to the Acting Regional Administrative Secretary of the Pwani Region, Nsajigwa George. In his remarks, Mr George welcomed the initiative and confirmed full support from regional, district, and local authorities to facilitate its successful implementation.
TIRP-2 aims to modernise and upgrade the country’s metre-gauge railway (MGR) system, improving connectivity across the regions of Dar es Salaam, Pwani, Dodoma, Tabora, Isaka, and Mwanza. The project forms part of a broader government initiative to revitalise Tanzania’s railway sector and promote efficient, multimodal transport.
The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has secured a US$200 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) for TIRP-2, with part of the funding allocated for consulting services to support project execution.
TRC, a state-owned enterprise, manages both standard gauge (SGR) and metre-gauge rail networks. The MGR spans 2,707 km and is currently undergoing significant rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the SGR network is being developed to a total of 3,196 km, with 722 km – including 181 km of sidings and passing loops – already operational between Dar es Salaam and Makutupora.
In line with ongoing reforms, the government is also preparing to open the national rail network to all licensed railway operators, supporting competition and enhancing the efficiency of rail transport in Tanzania.
