Antony Chawagarira
HARARE is poised for a major transformation of its public transport system through a proposed US$3 billion light rail network aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity between the capital and surrounding communities.
The ambitious project, which has secured approval from the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) and received National Project Status, is currently at the preparatory stage, with construction yet to begin.
The government has already granted the project National Project Status, allowing it to be pursued through public-private partnerships.
Chinese railway engineering company CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd. has expressed interest in participating in the proposed project, which is part of Harare’s 2025–2045 Master Plan and is expected to provide a faster, safer, and more affordable public transport option for residents.
Project proponents are mobilizing approximately US$5 million to finance feasibility studies, engineering designs, and environmental assessments required before construction can commence.
The proposed network will be developed in five phases, beginning with a line linking Harare’s central business district to Kuwadzana.
The subsequent phases will extend rail services to Highfield and Chitungwiza, Mabvuku-Tafara, Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, and the planned new city at Mt. Hampden.
Once construction begins, the entire network is expected to be completed within five years, with implementation set to be undertaken through a public-private partnership.
The project also includes plans to integrate rail services with the existing bus transport system, enabling buses to feed passengers into rail stations and creating a more connected metropolitan transport network.
The proposed investment comes at a time when Harare is experiencing mounting traffic congestion, an expanding urban population, and growing demand for affordable and dependable public transport.
For years, commuters have faced challenges associated with inadequate public transport capacity, traffic bottlenecks, and limited alternatives to road-based travel.
The planned light rail system is expected to introduce additional transport capacity while supporting urban mobility, reducing pressure on major roads, and contributing to long-term infrastructure development.
Zimbabwe previously operated a more extensive commuter rail service, but years of underinvestment and aging infrastructure contributed to the deterioration of passenger rail operations.
The proposed network could, therefore, mark a significant step toward restoring rail as a key component of urban public transportation.
However, the commencement date remains uncertain as authorities and investors work to complete preliminary studies and secure the funding required to move the project into construction.
For Harare residents, the immediate focus is now on when the long-awaited rail development will transition from planning to implementation.
