Railways Africa Magazine
Railways Africa Magazine discusses the activities of African railway operators and the supporting railway industry. The podcast covers railway news and rail-related business intelligence focused on the African continent. It also introduces listeners to the Railways Africa platforms, including its live events, editorial content, and premium online services. The show aims to connect audiences with both private and public rail operators across Africa.
Episodes
Alstom Sees Signalling and Open Access Driving South Africa’s Next Rail Phase
At the recent Africa Rail event, Phillippa Dean, Editor of Railways Africa, spoke with Martin Vaujour, President of Alstom’s Africa, Middle East and Central Asia region, about what comes next for South Africa’s passenger and freight rail networks.The discussion covered Alstom’s established manufacturing and maintenance activities in South Africa before turning to the next phase of rail development
Siemens Mobility South Africa CEO on Rail Reform, Digitalisation and High-Speed Rail
Africa’s rail sector is moving into a new phase, shaped by reform, open access, corridor development, digitalisation and the need for more reliable infrastructure. In this episode of Railways Africa Coffee with the Editor, Phillippa Dean speaks to Florian Kellenberger, Chief Executive Officer of Siemens Mobility South Africa.Florian explained his first priorities since taking up the South African
Transnet LeaseCo Update: Bidders, Rolling Stock Contracts, Demand and Next Steps
As Transnet advances its LeaseCo model, this Coffee with the Editor interview provides a detailed update on rolling stock deployment, bidder progress and growing demand from Train Operating Companies (TOCs) in South Africa and across the SADC region.Phillippa Dean speaks with Yolisa Kani, Chief Business Development Officer at Transnet and Acting CEO of Transnet International Holdings, on the lates
Transnet Freight Rail Sets Course for Recovery, Capacity Growth and Industry Collaboration
In this episode of "Coffee with the Editor," Phillippa Dean sits down with Russell Baatjies, Acting CE of Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), to discuss the ambitious roadmap for the 2026/27 financial year.From the deployment of the new 23E electric locomotives to the integration of Artificial Intelligence in maintenance, Baatjies outlines how TFR is moving beyond "recovery mode" towa
Update on Traxtion’s Latest Rolling Stock Investment Programme
In this Coffee with the Editor, Phillippa Dean reconnects with Traxtion CEO James Holley for a progress update on the company’s acquisition of 46 locomotives (42 U26C and 4 C30-8MMI), as part of its latest rolling stock investment programme.With engine orders placed and manufacturing underway, Holley confirms that the first locomotives are scheduled for shipment at the end of June, arriving in Sou
Ghana Gets a New Railway Masterplan and it is a Freight-Led Economic Enabler
In this Coffee With The Editor interview, Railways Africa Editor Phillippa Dean speaks with Dr Frederick Appoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority, on the launch of Ghana’s updated national railway Master Plan.The revised Master Plan repositions rail as a freight-led economic enabler, prioritising bulk mineral transport, corridor development and structured private s
Alstom’s Driverless System for Cairo Monorail and Regional Signalling Projects
In this interview, filmed during the recently held TransMEA 2025 in Cairo, our editor, Phillippa Dean, speaks with Alstom’s Vice President for Digital and Integrated Systems for Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia, Boris Symchowicz, about the signalling system that powers the monorail. He explains how the system enables high passenger capacity, short headways and future scalability to eight-c
Alstom AMECA Update: Project Momentum from South Africa to Egypt
Railways Africa Editor Phillippa Dean catches up with Martin Vaujour, Alstom’s President for Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia, at TransMEA 2025 in Cairo. Martin outlines the strong pipeline of activity across the region, including developments in South Africa with PRASA and Transnet, the impact of open access in the freight sector, new very high-speed and signalling projects in Morocco, an
South Africa’s Largest Private Rail Investment Begins with Forty-Six Locomotives
It is not every day that forty-six Cape-gauge locomotives in great condition become available at the same time. For Traxtion, this was an opportunity that could not be passed up.In this Coffee with the Editor, Railways Africa Editor Phillippa Dean speaks with Traxtion CEO James Holley about the R3.4 billion rolling-stock investment, considered the single largest investment made by a private rail o
Colossal Concrete Products on Africa’s Railway Opportunities & Open Access
Join Railways Africa Editor, Phillippa Dean, for a Coffee with the Editor conversation with Gwen Mahuma-Madida, CEO, and Sales Executive, Mothemane Makhura of Colossal Concrete Products, filmed during the recent Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Conference and Exhibition.The discussion covers Colossal’s role as Southern Africa’s largest railway sleeper manufacturer, and includes:Colossa
Botswana Rail Corridors, Open Access and Logistics Transformation
Railways Africa speaks with Hon. Keoagile Atamelang, Botswana’s Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, in this Coffee with the Editor.The discussion covers the status of Botswana’s key rail corridor projects, including the Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR), Mmamabula–Lephalale Railway, and Mosetse–Kazungula–Livingstone line, as well as the rehabilitation of the Ponta Techobanine corridor w
Transnet Freight Rail CEO Russell Baatjies on Longer Trains, Regional Integration and Open Access
In this Coffee with the Editor interview, recorded during the SARA Rail event, Transnet Freight Rail CEO Russell Baatjies discusses the company’s operational focus and regional integration efforts.Baatjies shares progress on pilot tests with Eswatini Railways to increase train length from 80 to 160 wagons, with full implementation expected soon. He highlights the potential to double capacity per s
Zimbabwe’s Rail Future: Regional Integration and Investment
In this Coffee with the Editor interview at the Southern African Railways Conference and Exhibition, Railways Africa Editor Phillippa Dean speaks with Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Joshua Sacco, and the MD of the National Railways of Zimbabwe, Ainah Dube-Kaguru.The discussion explores:1️⃣ Zimbabwe’s central role in regional rail integration across the North-South Corridor and the Beira
Traxtion CEO James Holley on Rail Reform, Investment and Growth Across Africa
In this Coffee with the Editor interview, Railways Africa Editor Phillippa Dean speaks with James Holley, CEO of Traxtion.Holley reflects on why Traxtion did not apply for rail access slots in this round, explaining that the awards remain conditional on certification and rolling stock availability, and that the company’s fleet of sixty locomotives is already fully deployed across nine African coun
ABB on Powering Africa’s Rail: Rolling Stock Components, Safety and Infrastructure
In this Coffee with the Editor conversation, Rudolf Vidacak, ABB Global Segment and Account Manager – Business Electrification – Transportation Rail and Infrastructure, joins Phillippa Dean, Editor of Railways Africa Magazine.Rudolf explains how ABB supports the rail sector with low- and medium-voltage components that are critical for both passenger and freight rolling stock. He highlights the imp
Lobito Atlantic Railway CEO Nicholas Fournier on Rehabilitation, Growth & Investment
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, Railways Africa Editor, Phillippa Dean, speaks with Nicholas Fournier, the recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR).Fournier shares his insights on the rehabilitation of the Lobito Railway line from Lobito in Angola through to Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He highlights progress in track refurbishment, the
Siemens Mobility: Transforming South Africa’s Open Access Rail with ETCS & Advanced Signalling
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, Railways Africa sits down with Patrick Moodley, CEO of Siemens Mobility South Africa, to discuss the company’s role in the country’s rail reform journey.As South Africa prepares to unlock open access through the Transnet Interim Infrastructure Manager (TRIM), Siemens Mobility is stepping forward with advanced signalling solutions, including SICAS S7 elect
The Journey from Concept to Track: Kim Wilson on Zak’s 48kg 1:12 Secant Turnout - Ready for Market
In this Coffee with the Editor interview, Railways Africa’s Phillippa Dean sits down with Kim Wilson, Managing Director of Clyde Industrial Corporation, to discuss the journey that led to the development and launch of Zak’s 48 kg 1:12 Secant turnout.The turnout features a fully flexible switch blade made from 51 kg rail and a cast manganese rail-bound frog, assembled on concrete sleepers with cast
Delivering the Future of Mobility: Alstom’s Role in Shaping Rail Across Africa
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, Phillippa Dean sits down with Martin Vaujour, recently appointed President of Alstom’s AMECA region (Africa, Middle East, and Central Asia) and new member of Alstom’s Executive Committee.Martin shares insight into Alstom’s strategic ambitions across a vibrant and diverse region, covering key rail projects in South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Ivory Co
Highlighting Transnet’s Cross-Border Rail Projects, LeaseCo & African Market Strategy
In this insightful episode of Coffee with the Editor, Railways Africa Magazine editor Phillippa Dean speaks with Wilson Mogoba, General Manager for Business Development at Transnet SOC Ltd, during Transnet Engineering’s Industry Day. The discussion covers Transnet’s growing regional footprint, strategic infrastructure partnerships, and the transformative role of the soon-to-be-operational LeaseCo.
Africa’s Next Big Rail Opportunity: Transnet’s LeaseCo Mobilising Rolling Stock to Meet Rail Reform Demand
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, filmed at Africa Rail 2025, Railways Africa Magazine editor Phillippa Dean speaks with the Chief Business Development Officer at Transnet about the strategic vision and current status of the Transnet LeaseCo initiative, which is currently in bid phase.The conversation explores the origins of LeaseCo, its link to local rail reform, regional leasing opportu
Transnet Engineering’s Vision for Growth, Innovation and African Rail Reform
In this Coffee with the Editor, filmed during Transnet Engineering’s Industry Day — held the day before Africa Rail 2025 — Railways Africa Magazine editor Phillippa Dean spoke to Bessie Mabunda, Chief Executive of Transnet Engineering. The conversation explores the company’s evolving strategy, notable achievements, and future ambitions as Transnet Engineering strengthens its role within South Afri
Gibela on PRASA Train Maintenance, Digital Tools, and Services for African Operators
In this Coffee with the Editor, filmed during Africa Rail 2025, Vuyiswa Tlomatsane, Services Executive at Gibela Rail Transport Consortium, unpacks the full scope of Gibela’s Maintenance, Technical Support, and Spare Supply Agreement with PRASA.Under this long-term contract, Gibela not only provides technical support but also develops PRASA’s maintenance regime and supplies all required spare part
Gibela Future Vision: Meeting the Needs of Passenger Rail on the African Continent
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, filmed at Africa Rail 2025, Railways Africa Magazine speaks with Reggie Boqo, Acting CEO of Gibela Rail Transport Consortium, about how Gibela is positioning itself to meet the future needs of passenger rail on the African continent.Gibela has just delivered its 280th trainset for South Africa’s passenger agency, PRASA and is on track to reach the 300 mar
Traxtion Expands Fleet, Workforce & African Operations
Join us for this Coffee with the Editor as Traxtion CEO James Holley shares key updates on the company’s fleet expansion, workforce growth, and African market expansion.Our conversation covers;Fleet Expansion – 50 out of 60 locomotives now in operation, with workshop capacity fully booked until August 2024. Slots for third-party rebuilds available in the second half of 2025.Workforce Development –
Unlocking Economic Potential: The South Africa-Botswana Rail Corridor Explained
On the sidelines of the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Anura Partners launched their latest report, Tracks to Prosperity: Realising the Vision for the South Africa-Botswana Rail Corridor, at their annual Mining X Logistics event, attended by 250 senior executives.In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, Dr Maximilian Matschke, Managing Partner at Anura Partners, discusses the s
Decarbonising Heavy Haul Rail Operations: The Future of Tractive Effort
This Coffee with the Editor is a follow-up discussion to the article titled "Decarbonisation 2050: What Tractive Effort Could Look Like." Our Editor Phillippa Dean sits down with Dr. Wiehan Le Roux (Technical Director), Dr. Rick Vandoorne (Railway Engineering Computational Designer), and Dr. André Broekman (Civil Engineering Computational Designer) from ZUTARI to discuss the future of ra
Rail Infrastructure: “The Locomotive Driving Africa's Economic Transformation Over the Next Decade”
In this Coffee with the Editor by Railways Africa, filmed during the 8th Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa (#PIDAWeek2024), Ibrah Wahabou, Head of Infrastructure and Transport Unit at AUDA-NEPAD, shares critical insights into Africa's transformative railway projects and their role in driving sustainable development under Agenda 2063.
Our conversation covers progress on key rail init
Highlighting Challenges and Opportunities for Addis Ababa’s Light Rail – A Conversation with Dr Birhan Abebaw
Join Railways Africa Magazine Editor, Phillippa Dean, in this Coffe with the Editor, as she sits down with Dr. Birhan Abebaw, CEO of the Addis Ababa Light Rail Transport Service Enterprise, for an in-depth discussion about the challenges and future prospects of Ethiopia’s pioneering light rail system.
Key Topics Covered:
The operational status of the Addis Ababa Light Rail, including fleet chall
Zambia Railways is Shaping Southern Africa’s Rail Network – Key Corridor Updates
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, Phillippa Dean of Railways Africa Magazine speaks with Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Board Chairperson, Mr. Emmanuel Hachipuka, covering Zambia’s pivotal role as a rail hub in Southern Africa. The discussion covers Zambia’s ambitious plans for regional rail connectivity, including the strategic role of TAZARA, recent progress on the Lobito Corridor, and p
Navigating Rail Reform and Open Access: Insights from Adj. Prof. Dr. Andrea Giuricin at the RSR Conference
In this Coffee with the Editor, Railways Africa Magazine interviews Adj. Prof. Dr. Andrea Giuricin, CEO of TRA Consulting, at the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Conference in Cape Town. Dr. Giuricin shares his expertise on global rail reform, the complexities of open access, and the importance of adapting reforms to each country’s unique context.
Dr. Giuricin highlights how countries like Italy, t
PRASA’s Recovery and Future Vision: Insights from Group CEO Hishaam Emeran at the Railway Safety Conference
In this Coffee with the Editor episode, filmed during the Railway Safety Conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) in Cape Town, PRASA Group CEO, Hishaam Emeran, delves into PRASA’s recovery strategy, future plans, and its role within South Africa's broader rail industry.
Hishaam shares insights from his recent trip to China, where he explored digital trends and innovations in rail,
Gautrain Expansion and Africa’s Rail Future: Insights from Gautrain CEO Tshepo Kgobe
In this Coffee with the Editor episode, filmed at the Railway Safety Conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) in Cape Town, Railways Africa Magazine speaks with Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe. Tshepo provides insights into the exciting developments for the Gautrain, including plans for network expansion, which will extend the Gautrain network to nearly 360 kilometres.
Gauteng Shifting from Road to Rail: A Conversation with Transport MEC Kedibone Diale Tlabela
Join us for an insightful "Coffee with the Editor" conversation with MEC Kedibone Diale Tlabela, Gauteng’s MEC for Roads and Transport, recorded at the 2024 Railway Safety Regulator Conference in Cape Town, hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). In this interview, the MEC discusses exciting developments in Gauteng's rail sector, including the expansion of Gautrain into Soweto, Mamelodi, and
Rail Safety, Open Access, and Industry Transformation with RSR Chairperson Nompumelelo Sibongile Ekeke
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, filmed during the Railway Safety Conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) under the theme "Rail Renaissance", we sit down with Ms Nompumelelo Sibongile Ekeke, the Chairperson of the RSR.
Ms Ekeke shares key insights into the state of South Africa's rail industry, the critical need to move freight off ageing roads and back onto rail, and the
DRC's Rail Network, Expansion, Challenges, and Future Plans with SNCC’s Tresor Kapuku Ngoy
In this special episode of Coffee with the Editor, filmed at the Southern African Railways Association Conference and Exhibition, we sit down with Tresor Kapuku Ngoy, Deputy Director General of Société Nationale des Chemins de fer du Congo (SNCC SA). In this insightful discussion, we explore the current state and future of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's (DRC) railways.
Tresor Kapuku Ngoy
Exploring Nigeria's Rail Property Management with Tunde Ayorinde
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, filmed during the Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Conference and Exhibition, we speak with Tunde Ayorinde from the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s property side. Tunde provides insights into the rapid growth of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, which now spans over 3,000 kilometres and operates both narrow and standard gauge lines. He highligh
Revitalising Rail Freight: Kenneth Williams on Makoya Group's Role & Transnet's Progress
In this episode of “Coffee with the Editor,” filmed during the Critical Materials Conference: FerroAlloys 2024 held in Johannesburg from 9th to 11th September, Railways Africa Magazine talks to, Kenneth Williams from the Makoya Group. The Makoya Group is a niche bulk-handling commodity advisory service for the mining industry, specialising in rail operations, private sidings, and bulk material loa
Luxembourg Rail Protocol Transforming Rail Asset Management
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, our editor Phillippa Dean sits down with Howard Rosen, Chairman of the Rail Working Group, at the Southern African Railways Association’s (SARA) annual conference and exhibition. The discussion covers the latest developments around the Luxembourg Rail Protocol and its growing influence on rail asset management globally.
The protocol, which officially cam
Assessing Railway Systems: Insights from Hatch at SAHHA
In this episode of Railways Africa Magazine’s “Coffee with the Editor,” our editor, Phillippa Dean, speaks with Anneri Robinson from Hatch at the South African Heavy Haul Association (SAHHA) conference about her paper, “Approach to Assessing the Condition of a Railway System,” co-authored with Nathan Wilson. Robinson talks about the challenges faced by railway operators, including asset decay and
SMH Rail Expands African Presence: Insights from Kenya, Tanzania, and New Ventures in South Africa
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, filmed at the Southern African Railways Association (SARA) annual conference and exhibition, Phillippa Dean engages with Kannan Ponnusamy, Head of Business Development at SMH Rail. They explore SMH Rail’s impactful projects across Africa, focusing on locomotive remanufacturing in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and new ventures in South Africa.
Kannan provides k
New Rail Safety Act, Open Access, and Industry Challenges: Exclusive with RSR Acting CEO Mmuso Selaledi
Join Railways Africa’s Editor, Phillippa Dean, in this Coffee with the Editor as she sits down with the Acting CEO of the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR), Mmuso Selaledi, to discuss the upcoming changes in South Africa’s rail safety landscape.
In this in-depth interview, Selaledi provides insights into the new Railways Safety Act awaiting presidential approval, the implications of open access on th
Grindrod Rail's Strategic Growth Plans: Insights from CEO Johny Smith
In this Coffee with the Editor, Johny Smith, CEO of Grindrod Rail, shares insights into the company's strategy and plans in light of their recent interim results. Despite a challenging period, Grindrod Rail's performance has been commendable, showcasing the company's resilience and strategic focus. Smith highlights the critical role of rail in Grindrod’s broader logistics strategy and
Transforming Urban Mass Transit In Southern Africa Spotlight On Kinshasa
In this Coffee with the Editor, we catch up with Bernard Peille just before his transition from Managing Director of Alstom Southern Africa to Alstom Brazil. Bernard discusses Alstom's involvement in the MetroKin project in Kinshasa, a key mass transit initiative aimed at addressing the city's severe congestion. Alstom is set to be part of the first phase of the project—connecting the cent
Rail Safety Regulator Chairperson on 21 Years, Industry Milestones and Women Leading in Rail
In this special edition of Coffee with the Editor, we catch up with Ms Nompumelelo Sibongile Ekeke, the Chairperson of the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR), at the SARA Conference and Exhibition held at the Sandton Convention Centre. Ms Ekeke discusses the exciting developments in rail safety, including the inaugural Rail Safety Awards celebrating 21 years of the RSR, the importance of harmonising s
How the African Development Bank is Transforming Africa’s Rail Network
Welcome to another episode of Coffee with the Editor! In this insightful discussion, Phillippa Dean, Editor of Railways Africa, sits down with Mike Salawou, from the African Development Bank (AfDB), during the Southern African Railways Association’s (SARA) Conference and Exhibition at the Sandton Convention Centre.
In this episode, we explore the African Development Bank’s pivotal role in transfor
Championing Youth, Skills, Diversity & Integrated Public Transport Across Africa: Nthabiseng Kubheka, CEO of Bombela Operating Company
Join us for an insightful conversation with Nthabiseng Kubheka, the Chief Executive Officer of Bombela Operating Company (PTY) Ltd, (BOC), as she shares her journey and achievements in the rail industry. Recognised as one of the top 15 women globally in rail by the International Railway Journal (IRJ), Nthabiseng discusses her passion for inclusion and diversity, the strategic initiatives at BOC, a
Driving East African Rail Connectivity: Insights From Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency's Zaituni Nakonde
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, Zaituni Nakonde, Director of Infrastructure Development at CCTTFA, discusses the agency's role and mandate in enhancing rail connectivity across East Africa. Learn how the Central Corridor is tackling funding challenges and promoting the new Standard Gauge Railway to boost regional trade and logistics.
Rail Integration And Regional Connectivity: Eng. Achieng’ Akun Beatrice On The EAC's Mission And Challenges
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, Eng. Achieng’ Akun Beatrice discusses the role of the East African Community (EAC) and its mission to integrate the region through various policies and infrastructure development programmes. We touch on topics from project preparation, to standards, and harmonisation for seamless operability and connectivity.
The East African Community is a regional inte
Building The Future: LAPSSET’s Strategic Railway Network To Boost Trade Between Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia
In this insightful Coffee with the Editor, Mutahi (Alex) Wariithi, Senior Valuer at LAPSSET Corridor Development Authority, shares an in-depth look at the LAPSSET project and its current status, particularly focusing on the railway network.
LAPSSET, which stands for Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport, is a transformative transport and economic corridor aimed at developing underutilised regio
Transnet Freight Rail Insights: Strategy, Infrastructure and Industry Collaboration
In this edition of Coffee with the Editor, we are joined by Russell Baatjies, CEO of Transnet Freight Rail (TFR). Russell provides invaluable insights into TFR's strategic direction, ongoing collaborations and formidable challenges. Our dialogue navigates through TFR's overarching vision and proactive approach in aligning with industry imperatives while anticipating future demands.
Navigating The Rails Of Change: Prof. Havenga Comments On Current Rail Developments In South Africa
Professor Jan Havenga, the newly appointed board member of PRASA, offered an insightful dialogue on current rail affairs in South Africa, during the celebration of the PRASA’s 200th train launch in Cape Town on 23 April 2024. His expertise in freight logistics will bring fresh perspectives to passenger rail transport.
Full article: https://www.railways.africa/rails-of-change-professor-havenga-cur
PRASA’s Progress And Innovation In Train Systems And Signalling
Join Railways Africa Magazine for an insightful interview with Athanacious Makgamatha, General Manager: SAD Signals and Telecoms, as he discusses the latest advancements in South Africa’s passenger rail systems. Recorded during a celebratory event on April 23, marking the 200th trainset and the re-signalling of the Southern Line in Cape Town, Makgamatha shares valuable insights into ongoing progre
Rail Reform In South Africa: Progress And Challenges
A brief discussion on the future of rail transport in South Africa with Ngwako Makaepea, Deputy Director General of Rail Transport, during the PRASA celebration in Cape Town on 23 April 2024.
Ngwako highlights the Department of Transport's commitment to advancing rail reform, emphasising the importance of laying down foundational building blocks for a robust system. He discusses key initiatives s
South Africa's Railways: Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga Discusses Milestones & Future Plans
Join us in this interview as the Minister of Transport, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, discusses significant advancements in South Africa's passenger railway system, including the delivery of the 200th train from a total of 600, and the national signalling programme. As of 23 April, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has successfully recovered 31 of the 40 rail corridors.
Beira Port Bolsters Facilities Amidst Growing Trade Demands
At the Land Linked Zambia Event held on April 4-5, 2024, in Zambia, we caught up with Mudiwa Mupfanochiya from Cornelder de Moçambique, S.A., for a "Coffee With the Editor" interview. Mudiwa provided an insightful overview of the operations and strategic role of the Port of Beira, managed by the private consortium formed through a partnership between the Mozambican public company Porto e Caminhos
BBR’s Rail Initiatives In Zimbabwe And Beyond
In this edition of Railways Africa Magazine’s "Coffee with the Editor," filmed at the recent Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event, we speak with Raymond Shoniwa, the General Manager of Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway (BBR).
Afri-Track's Evolution: Railway Construction, Pit-To-Port and Renewable Energy Solutions
Railways Africa Magazine's "Coffee with the Editor" filmed at the recent Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event, features Johan Laubscher, CEO of Afri-Track Group Holdings & Afri-Track Railway Construction.
Johan elaborates on Afri-Track's strategic expansion plans, noting their ventures in South Africa, Botswana, and their home base in Namibia. According to Johan, the next stop is Zambia, as they now pre
TAZARA: Enhancing Operational Capabilities and SADC Railway Regional Integration
In this edition of Railways Africa Magazine’s 'Coffee with the Editor,' filmed at the recent Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event, we speak with Bruno Ching'andu, Managing Director of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). He discusses the current state and forward-looking strategies set to shape the future of TAZARA.
Swala Rail Solutions' Vision For Rail In The DRC And Zambia
In this episode of Railways Africa Magazine's "Coffee with the Editor," filmed at the recent Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event, we sit down with Sifiso Ndhlukula, Managing Director of Swala Logistics. Sifiso discusses the establishment of Swala Rail Solutions, a commercial company registered in the DRC in 2022, with the aim of operating rail services between the DRC and Zambia. The company has procure
Namibia’s Rail Boom Latest Updates From TransNamib’s Acting CEO Webster Gonzo
In this Coffee with the Editor session, join us for an enlightening discussion with Webster Gonzo, the acting CEO of TransNamib, captured at the recently held Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event. Gonzo provides an update on Namibia’s major rail projects, including the strategic Trans-Kalahari Railway, the Kranzberg-Otjiwarongo, and the Trans-Zambezi initiatives, all supported significantly by the govern
SNCC Transforming Railway Transportation in the DRC
In this Coffee with the Editor, with Ir. Victor Kaluila Muzembe, Director of Planning for the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer du Congo (SNCC), we find out more about the strategic expansion and railway modernisation efforts amidst the Democratic Republic of the Congo's mining boom. We discuss how SNCC is opening its extensive railway network to private operators, securing significant private
Zambia Railways Gears Up for Growth with Strategic Plans and Upgrades
Join us as we explore the dynamic changes and strategic advancements at Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL), in this Coffee with the Editor, filmed during the recently held Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event. Mr. Emmanuel Hachipuka, Chairperson of the Board, shares inside details on Zambia's rail sector transformation.
We discuss the ambitious greenfield projects managed through the Zambian Ministry of Tr
Traxtion Driving Rail Innovation and Expansion in Africa
In this "Coffee with the Editor," James Holley, CEO of Traxtion, discusses the company's ambitious expansion plans and strategic initiatives within the dynamic context of railway operations in South Africa and the broader African continent. James shares insights into the extensive refurbishment and modernisation of an additional 20 locomotives at the Rosslyn workshops, highlighting the process of
Transforming Railways In Tanzania: An Exclusive Interview With TRC's Director General
Join us in this exclusive Coffee with the Editor session, where our Editor sits down with Mr. Masanja K. Kadogosa, the Director General of Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC). Discover the groundbreaking developments in Tanzania's railway network.
From the near completion of the Dar es Salaam-Morogoro and Morogoro-Dodoma sections to future projects linking Tanzania with neighbouring countries, de
Unveiling Africa's Railway Future: Exclusive Interview with Ibrah Wahabou, AUDA-NEPAD
Join us in an insightful conversation with Ibrah Wahabou, Senior Programme Officer at AUDA-NEPAD, as we explore the future of Africa's rail infrastructure. Recorded in Addis Ababa, this interview delves deep into the initiatives and challenges of developing a connected, efficient, and sustainable railway network across the continent.
Key Highlights:
- AU-NEPAD's role in translating policies into
Advancing Africa's Rail Network: The Africa Integrated High Speed Railway Network Workshop
Join us for a special edition of "Coffee with the Editor" as we sit down with Eric Ntagengerwa from the African Union during the recently held railway technical experts workshop on the Africa Integrated High Speed Railway Network, a flagship project of the AU Agenda 2063, held in Addis Ababa from 12-14th December 2023.
Eric provides an in-depth look at the workshop's objectives, including assessi
Railway Realities: Traxtion CEO James Holley Speaks on South African Rail's Challenges & Prospects
Amidst the bustle of the International Railway Safety Council conference in Cape Town, hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator, we engaged in a candid "Coffee with the Editor" session with James Holley, the CEO of Traxtion. Our discussion touches on Traxtion's growth, the challenges and opportunities facing South Africa's railway sector, and the actionable steps ahead for the industry.
Aligning wi
SAFLog's Vision for a Seamless Rail Future: An Exclusive with CEO Thami Gwala
In our "Coffee with the Editor" segment, set against the backdrop of the International Railway Safety Council conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator, we feature Thami Gwala, the CEO of SAFLog.
Reflecting on SAFLog's journey, Gwala recalled that they were one of the first companies to obtain their license in 2004. This not only marked a historic moment, being recognized as the first bla
Reimagining Interprovincial Railway - The Gauteng-Limpopo Rail Link and Gautrain's Next Chapter
Tshepo Kgobe, set to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) in February 2024, sat down for an enlightening Coffee with the Editor, chat during the International Railway Safety Council Conference, organized by the Railway Safety Regulator.
While everyone eagerly awaits updates on the Gautrain extensions and the impending Gautrain concession transition, T
PRASA is Focused on Delivering a Safe, Reliable and Predictable Rail Service
Hishaam Emeran, the CEO of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), recently shared insights during a "Coffee with the Editor" interview at the International Railway Safety Council's annual conference, hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator. The discussion revolved around PRASA's commitment to delivering a safe, reliable, and predictable rail service, encompassing aspects like signalling
Exploring South Africa's Rail Future with Deputy Director-General Ngwako Makaepea
During the International Railway Safety Council Conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator, Ngwako Makaepea, the Deputy Director-General of Rail Transport at the Department of Transport, shared valuable insights during a "Coffee with the Editor" session.
In the midst of Transport Month, the spotlight is firmly on the rail industry. Makaepea observes, "Transport stands as the heartbeat of t
Advancing Railway Safety: An In-Depth Discussion with the Railway Safety Regulator
Join us for another insightful session of 'Coffee with the Editor' as Phillippa Dean sits down with Mmuso Selaledi, the acting CEO of the Railway Safety Regulator. In this in-depth conversation, they explore a myriad of topics, shedding light on the significant transformations within the railway industry and the pivotal role of the Railway Safety Regulator in fostering safety and innovation.
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Empowering Local Suppliers to Go Global: A Chat with Alstom's Nolufefe Gxakushe-Solani
At the recent Ignite SME Summit 2023, Nolufefe Gxakushe-Solani, the Procurement Director at Alstom, took the stage to discuss the company's active involvement in supplier and enterprise development, especially concerning the four joint venture rail projects that Alstom has in South Africa. We caught up with her offstage for an impromptu Coffee with the Editor session.
Alstom, globally renowned f
Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities in South Africa's Rail Sector Transformation
A few weeks ago, we published a blog authored by Sarah Truen titled: “Unlocking Efficiency – Overcoming Challenges in South Africa’s Rail Freight Sector.” In this Coffee with the Editor podcast, Sarah delves into the intricacies involved in achieving success within this context.
Our conversation delves into the challenges and complexities associated with introducing competition, enhancing operati
Alstom Ubunye's Vision for the Future – PRASA Trains and Beyond
In this episode of Coffee with the Editor, we have the pleasure of hosting Logan Naicker, CEO of Alstom Ubunye. This engaging conversation provides comprehensive insights into Alstom Ubunye’s operations within the African Rail industry, with a particular focus on their ongoing PRASA project.
Logan delves into the progress of the PRASA project, where Alstom Ubunye is nearing the serial production
A Deep Dive With Wabtec's Babatunde Oso On Revitalising Africa's Rolling Stock
In this Coffee with the Editor, Babatunde Oso, Regional General Manager for Africa at Wabtec Corporation, discusses the company’s strategic role and ongoing efforts in the South African and broader African rail industry. The conversation provides a deep insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the rail sector in Africa, including the competition with road transport and the need for sig
Regional Coordination Key in Africa's High-Speed Rail Network Project to Revolutionise Intra-African Trade
Welcome to an engaging Coffee with the Editor with Eng. Eric Ntagengerwa, Acting Head of the Transport and Mobility Division at the Infrastructure and Energy Department, African Union Commission. This interview took place during the Continental Workshop on the Implementation of the Africa Integrated High-Speed Railways Network.
Eric takes a moment to share the objectives of the workshop, focusing
James Holley, CEO of Traxtion, Discusses Refurbishment Projects, Hydrogen Solutions, and Rail Industry Updates
James Holley, CEO of Traxtion, recently joined Railways Africa Magazine for a Coffee With The Editor interview. The conversation covered various topics and updates in the rail industry. One of the key highlights was the refurbishment of Class 39 locomotives purchased from Transnet Engineering. Two of the locomotives are currently in testing, and all locomotives have been contracted out for lease.
Unveiling the Future of Ethiopia's Railways
For this Coffee with the Editor, we sit down with Engineer Hilina Belachew - CEO, of Ethiopia Railways Corporation. In this in-depth interview, we discuss the transformative role of the rail network in Ethiopia, its current projects, and future expansion plans. We explore exciting development corridors and dive into the Corporation's visionary plans for increased independence in railway production
