The rehabilitation of the Matadi-Chemin railway is entering an exciting new phase with the acquisition of the first seven passenger trains. This step marks a decisive turning point in the rail transport project in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The National Transport Office (ONATRA), the public operator of the multimodal transport sector, welcomes this progress which demonstrates the sustained commitment of President Félix Tshisekedi and his government to improve the rail networks in the country. .
The train unloading event, which took place on December 13, 2023 at the port of Matadi, was marked by the presence of the Governor of Kongo Central, Guy Bandu Ndungidi, and the Director of the Department of Sea Ports, Médard Nsimba Nsiama.
This acquisition was made possible through a public-private partnership with Arise IIP. Total investments for the rehabilitation of the Matadi-Kinshasa railway amount to 500 million US dollars. These funds will be used to install new signaling, restore existing tracks and introduce passenger and freight trains that meet international standards.
During a recent campaign rally in Matadi, President Tshisekedi underlined his wish, as well as that of his government, to improve the railway networks to stimulate the country’s economic development. He highlighted the importance of this modernization to face the logistical challenges linked to urban and industrial growth.
Indeed, the railway offers a safe, reliable and competitive mode of transport for travelers. The increasing deterioration of the roads, due to the increase in road traffic and insufficient control of load restrictions, causes numerous accidents and considerably lengthens travel times between Matadi and Kinshasa, often reaching, or even exceeding, 10 hours.
The rehabilitation of the Matadi-Kinshasa railway is therefore envisaged as a solution to relieve road congestion, reduce damage to roads and associated maintenance costs.
In addition to these local benefits, the rehabilitation of this historic railway line will also have a wider economic impact. As the main access to international markets for the Kinshasa metropolis, the railway will play a crucial role in the supply of primary products from abroad.
The port of Matadi, located on the banks of the Congo River, is the country’s main port providing access to the Atlantic basin. The rehabilitation of this important railway line is therefore an absolute necessity to stimulate economic development, reduce environmental impact and meet the growing transport needs in a region undergoing rapid urban and industrial expansion..
The rehabilitation of the Matadi-Chemin railway is a major step forward for transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and opens new economic prospects for the country.