Kampala, 4 Aug, 2023 (GNP): Uganda is embarking on a significant restoration project to reopen a branch of a century-old railway line, aimed at enhancing regional trade and transportation efficiency to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The railway spokesperson confirmed the development, stating that the initiative is expected to reduce shipping costs and enhance economic connectivity within the region.
The historic railway line, which has been dormant for nearly four decades, forms a part of the East Africa rail network that extends from Kenya’s Mombasa port on the Indian Ocean. Originally built during the early 20th century by Kenya and Uganda’s former colonial ruler, Britain, the railway line served as a crucial trade route for the region.
John Linnon Sengendo, the spokesman for the state-run Uganda Railways Corporation (URC), emphasized the ambition to shift long-distance bulk cargo transportation from roads to railways. Sengendo stated that railways offer a more cost-effective and time-efficient mode of transport, aligning with Uganda’s vision for economic growth.
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The decision to revive the old network emerged after plans to construct a modern standard gauge railway (SGR) failed to get financing from China. Uganda terminated its contract with China Harbour and Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC) for the construction of $2.2 billion SGR earlier this year and is currently seeking a new contractor.
The old line would be restored over a two-year period by China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). The Ugandan government will provide funding of 200 billion shillings ($55.48 million) for this endeavor, Sengendo said.
The 382 km (237 mile) section to be repaired connects Tororo town in Uganda’s east, near the border with Kenya, and ends at a logistics hub in Gulu in Uganda’s north, close to the border with South Sudan. The Gulu hub was constructed with funding from the European Union and completed in late 2021, as part of Uganda’s comprehensive efforts to revitalize its railway network, which had faced decline during the economic challenges of the 1970s and early 1980s.
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Upon the reopening of the rail link, Ugandan officials anticipate a shift from road-based transportation to rail for shipping transit goods to South Sudan and northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This is expected to streamline trade and logistics in the region and enhance economic integration.
Additionally, neighboring Kenya and Uganda are moving forward with plans to expedite the construction of another standard gauge railway connecting Naivasha in Kenya to Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The joint effort aims to further facilitate trade and connectivity between the two East African countries.