TransNamib Revises Wabtec Locomotive Procurement Plans

TransNamib has canceled the contract to purchase 23 Wabtec locomotives due to a lack of transparency and is launching a new tender involving multiple suppliers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Namibia’s Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi, made the decision citing the absence of competition and geopolitical risks. He emphasized that procuring locomotives from a single supplier without an open selection is unacceptable.

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The minister noted that many quality manufacturers exist globally, and ignoring competition is a strategic mistake. He instructed TransNamib to initiate a new procurement process under transparent conditions.

The Namibian and South African Development Banks had previously allocated $150 million for the project. The funding was intended not only for the purchase of 23 locomotives but also for the repair of seven units, depot upgrades, and the acquisition of 300 freight cars.

TransNamib’s Fleet Urgently Needs Renewal

TransNamib’s current fleet primarily consists of General Electric/Wabtec locomotives, most of which are over 25 years old, with some in operation for more than 50 years. Meanwhile, units from other manufacturers purchased later are already out of service.

A month ago, South Africa terminated a $430 million contract with Wabtec for 233 locomotives due to corruption linked to the deal. This precedent heightened concerns in the region.

TransNamib is now exploring more flexible procurement options to reduce risks and modernize its aging fleet without relying on a single supplier.