Traxtion Expands Rail Operations into Angola with Strategic Investment

Traxtion, Africa’s major private freight rail company, expands operations into Angola with a new contract. This strategic move enhances logistics along the Lobito Rail Corridor, improving freight transportation. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Traxtion Strengthens Rail Transport in Angola with Key Partnership

CEO James Holley highlights Traxtion’s previous role in Angola through part sales to railway operators. However, this new agreement involves direct locomotive deployment and personnel support, solidifying Traxtion’s local presence.

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The company leases U20C locomotives to Lobito Atlantic Railway, ensuring efficient freight movement. These trains transport copper and other materials to the Angola-DRC border for high-speed shipping.

Larger locomotives face logistical challenges at Lobito’s port due to limited space capacity. The port cannot accommodate full-length 30-wagon trains, requiring them to be split before loading.

Traxtion supplies G18U shunting locomotives to streamline freight movement at Lobito’s port. These shunters allow mainline locomotives to drop wagons quickly and return for more cargo.

Holley confirms that Traxtion will fully maintain the two leased shunters for peak performance. Additionally, Traxtion initiates conversion training for local operators, ensuring seamless locomotive handling.

The first locomotive arrives in Angola soon, while the second undergoes upgrades before mid-2025 deployment. All modifications are completed at the Rosslyn Rail Hub in Pretoria before delivery.

Expanding Rail Infrastructure Beyond Angola for Future Growth

Holley states this contract aligns perfectly with Traxtion’s vision of reshaping African freight logistics. Custom solutions help overcome infrastructure challenges, making rail transport more efficient and sustainable.

Successful projects in the DRC paved the way for expansion into Angola’s growing transport sector. Strong partnerships and proven reliability enable Traxtion to establish a firm regional footprint.

Now operating in nine African nations, Traxtion shifts focus to South Africa’s rail opportunities. Emerging third-party access regulations create new potential for investment and operational growth.

Traxtion’s fleet is fully deployed, yet South Africa remains a primary target for expansion. Increased accessibility within the rail sector fuels growth opportunities, driving sustainable infrastructure investments.

Holley expresses confidence in Traxtion’s ability to transform Africa’s freight transport industry. Continued expansion, innovation, and efficiency improvements drive the company’s long-term logistics strategy.

Source, photo: www.railwaysafrica.com

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