Construction of the Kampala-Malaba Railway Begins in Uganda

In Uganda, the construction of the Kampala-Malaba railway, with a 1435 mm gauge, has officially begun. A ceremony took place on November 21, 2024, in Tororo, in the country’s southeast. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Why the Construction of the Kampala-Malaba Railway Matters for Uganda’s Future?

President Yoweri Museveni and other high-ranking officials attended the event to mark the significant milestone. The project costs $3 billion, with a contract signed in October with Turkey’s Yapı Merkezi. It includes designing and building the electrified line and providing the necessary rolling stock.

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The future railway will stretch 273 kilometers, connecting Kampala and Malaba at a speed of 120 km/h. This development ensures quicker regional transportation, linking Uganda to Kenya’s Naivasha-Malaba line. Once completed, it will provide Uganda access to the Indian Ocean through the port of Mombasa. The new infrastructure plays a vital role in integrating Uganda into regional and global trade networks.

Key Features of the Construction of the Kampala-Malaba Railway Project

Incorporating the project into Uganda’s national infrastructure strategy aims to boost economic growth and trade. The initiative focuses on creating new jobs and strengthening the country’s logistics systems. Construction will take four years and include tunnels and bridges spanning significant distances. The longest tunnel will measure 2.1 kilometers, while bridges will exceed 2.8 kilometers in total length. The railway will handle up to 25 million tons of freight annually, significantly enhancing regional cargo transport.

The project represents a major step towards achieving economic and social objectives. It will improve transport links and stimulate economic expansion across Uganda. Additionally, it offers Uganda greater integration into international trade systems, fostering new business opportunities. The initiative boosts the region’s economic activity and accelerates logistical operations. Its influence extends beyond Uganda, contributing to stability across East Africa.

The railway’s new route is expected to reduce transport costs significantly for Ugandan exporters. These changes will make goods more competitive on global markets, supporting economic diversification. Previously, outdated rail systems constrained Uganda’s economic potential and limited access to emerging markets. The modern railway will address these challenges, opening new trade routes and enhancing export performance.

Switching to a 1435 mm gauge offers opportunities for technical and environmental improvements. Electrification ensures sustainability and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, enhancing operational efficiency. Modern technologies will increase the reliability of services and lower operational costs for businesses. The railway supports Uganda’s goals for sustainable transport development.

The project’s social benefits include thousands of new jobs created across construction and related sectors. It will improve living standards for communities by generating income and supporting local industries. Furthermore, industries like materials production and services will experience growth, driven by increased demand. These broader economic effects underline the railway’s transformative impact on Uganda’s development.

Thus, the Kampala-Malaba railway will become more than a transportation corridor. It is a strategic tool for achieving Uganda’s national and international goals. The project strengthens ties with neighboring countries and global markets, marking a significant step forward. Uganda is advancing toward economic prosperity and greater social stability.

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