President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalize Malawi’s rail transport networks, which were neglected by previous governments. Speaking at Marka Border Railway Station on Wednesday, Chakwera welcomed the inaugural fuel train carrying 1.2 million liters of petroleum products from Beira, Mozambique.
Chakwera highlighted the significance of the railway resumption, emphasizing its role in boosting the country’s socio-economic development. “Most people doubted my administration would revamp the railway line. I am glad today that this railway line is functional,” he said, recalling that last month a fuel train arrived in Lilongwe, marking the resumption of services after a 21-year hiatus.
“What I said on September 4, 2020, has come true. Today, I am witnessing the arrival of a train at Marka carrying fuel after 41 years,” Chakwera noted. He also urged communities to be patient, assuring them of his government’s commitment to long-lasting development projects.
Minister of Transport, Jacob Hara, hailed the event as a milestone in infrastructure development, noting the railway project would reduce the cost of goods for rural communities. National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) Board Chairperson Colleen Zamba echoed this sentiment, stating that rail transport is a more cost-effective method for fuel imports.
Traditional Authority Ndamera also praised the administration for delivering development projects across all regions of Malawi.
