Tanzania, Burundi, DRC set strategies to fast-track SGR project

KINSHASA: MINISTERS for Transport from Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have met to outline strategies to fast-track the implementation of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric rail project.

The cross-border initiative is expected to transform the economic landscape of East and Central Africa by facilitating the movement of goods and services to landlinked countries.

The meeting follows a recent ministerial gathering in Kinshasa, DRC, which brought together senior transport officials from the three nations.

The session was chaired by the DRC Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport, Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo. During the meeting, the ministers formally endorsed the progress report on the feasibility study for the SGR section from Msongati to Kindu.

This section is part of a larger plan to link railway networks from Tanzania through Burundi to eastern DRC – a project seen as vital for unlocking regional economic opportunities and strengthening integration.

Speaking on behalf of Tanzania’s Minister for Transport, Permanent Secretary Professor Godius Kahyarara described the SGR project as more than just transport infrastructure.

“It is a catalyst for shared regional development,” he said, emphasising that the project will boost trade, reduce transport costs, and enhance the global competitiveness of Dar es Salaam Port. Prof Kahyarara noted that the port currently serves numerous landlinked countries.

“In line with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s policy, we are working to ensure all countries relying on Dar es Salaam port are connected to the SGR network,” he added.

Data from Tanzania’s Ministry of Transport shows that the DRC is the leading user of the Port of Dar es Salaam, handling over 5.9 million tonnes of cargo during the 2024/2025 financial year. This highlights the DRC’s significance as a key trading partner, with even greater trade volumes expected once the SGR project is completed.

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The SGR is set to connect Uvinza, Musongati, Gitega, Bujumbura, Uvira, and Kindu, facilitating the efficient movement of freight and passengers across the three countries. It will also serve as a crucial link between landlinked nations and Dar es Salaam port, which remains a major regional trade gateway.

Ministers from Burundi and DRC expressed satisfaction with the progress made and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate for timely project implementation.

They also agreed to fast-track remaining studies and enhance coordination through a regional transport oversight body. On Burundi’s side, SGR Project Coordinator Engineer Aaron Niyungeko said the country is finalising its feasibility study ahead of the construction of the Gitega–Kindu railway section.

“The project is expected to bring substantial benefits, particularly to farmers and traders in Burundi,” he noted.

The meeting underscored the three countries’ strong commitment to modern infrastructure development that will link markets, stimulate trade, and drive shared economic growth across East and Central Africa.