SOUTHERN AFRICA – Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique have signed an agreement to develop the Techobanine deep-water port and the Limpopo railway line in a major step towards regional connectivity.
The signing took place during a tripartite summit in Maputo, where Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi, and Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi discussed the project’s details.
The agreement includes constructing a deep-water port in Mozambique’s Matutuine District and a 1,200km railway line stretching across Zimbabwe, connecting Mozambique and Botswana.
This project, covering 13,000 hectares, is estimated to cost around USD 1.5 billion. The African Development Bank has committed to disbursing between USD 3 to USD 4 million for a feasibility study.
“The new port and railway will significantly enhance connectivity between our nations,” President Mnangagwa stated. “This will streamline the transportation of goods, including fresh produce, across borders, reducing transit times and costs.”
The Techobanine port and the Limpopo railway line are expected to significantly impact the trade of fresh produce. Improved transportation networks will facilitate the movement of goods, offering fresh produce exporters faster access to international markets.
This will allow them to reach consumers more efficiently, ultimately boosting trade within the region.
“The improved facilities at the new port will increase cargo handling capacity for all three countries,” President Masisi noted. “This is a game-changer for our fresh produce sector.”
With the enhanced infrastructure, the Techobanine port is set to boost cargo handling capabilities, enabling more exports and imports of fresh produce. The railway line will offer a direct link to the port, making it easier to transport perishable goods.
“Efficient transportation is crucial for the fresh produce sector,” said President Nyusi. “This project will make a significant difference in how we handle and move goods across our borders.”
The signing of this agreement follows the recent eighth session of the Botswana/Mozambique Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation, held in Maputo. The leaders discussed various cooperation areas, including road infrastructure, agriculture, livestock, food security, security, and public order.
Presidents Masisi and Nyusi are now expected to oversee the signing of additional memoranda of understanding and agreements to further these cooperative efforts.
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