Chinese Rail Giant Eyes US$3 Billion Harare Light Rail Project

Harare’s plans to introduce a modern light rail transport system have received a boost after Chinese railway engineering company CRRC Dalian Co., Ltd. expressed interest in participating in the proposed US$3 billion project.

A delegation from CRRC Dalian met Harare Deputy Mayor Councillor Rosemary Muronda at Town House yesterday to discuss possible involvement in the project.

The meeting was also attended by Business Committee chairperson Councillor Rufaro Matsika and Sibert Makuzha from the council’s Business Development Unit.

CRRC Dalian was represented by managers Li Simo and Zhang Shiwei.

The proposed light rail network 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.

The planned routes will connect high-density suburbs in the south-western parts of the city, including Dzivaresekwa, Kuwadzana, Mufakose and Highfield, with the central business district.

The network is also expected to extend to Chitungwiza and the proposed new city in Mt Hampden.

Government has already granted the project national project status, allowing it to be pursued through Public-Private Partnerships.

If implemented, the project could help reduce the pressure on Harare’s road network and ease daily congestion caused by thousands of commuters travelling into and out of the CBD.

It is also expected to improve commuter safety and reduce transport costs for workers, traders and other residents who rely heavily on public transport.

CRRC Dalian has experience in railway projects across Africa, with operations and projects in countries including Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Angola, Zambia and South Africa.

The engagement with Harare City Council signals growing interest from Chinese investors in the city’s planned transport infrastructure.

However, no investment agreement has been signed yet, and authorities have not announced a construction start date for the proposed light rail system.