China Signs Deal to Upgrade Iconic African Rail Line

A 2013 file image of Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Kikwete (2ndL) at a wreath-laying ceremony to honor Chinese workers who died building the TAZARA rail line in the early 1970's. It was one of Xi's first overseas trips after becoming president. (Photo by JOHN LUKUWI / AFP)

China, Zambia, and Tanzania signed a $1.4 billion deal to upgrade the TAZARA rail line between the two countries. The line is an icon of Africa-China cooperation, with its first iteration supported by Mao Zedong in the 1970s.

The deal gives China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation a 30-year concession. The first three years will be focused on rebuilding, upgrading, and restoration. The firm will then run the line for the subsequent 27 years. The deal includes upgrading the rolling stock, with 32 locomotives and 762 wagons to be purchased.

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by CGSP Staff

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