Zimbabwe and Zambia have signed a $2.18 billion agreement to construct the Lion’s Den–Kafue railway, a 311-kilometre corridor aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and linking the two landlocked countries to Indian Ocean ports. The project, spanning 217 km in Zimbabwe and 94 km in Zambia, is designed to facilitate trade, improve logistics, and support long-term economic growth across Southern Africa.
The rail line will reduce reliance on road transport for mineral exports, significantly cutting transit distances to key ports such as Beira and Durban. By lowering transport costs and easing congestion, the project is expected to enhance competitiveness and unlock trade opportunities, particularly for Zambia’s copper exports and Zimbabwe’s broader economic activities.
Aligned with regional integration goals under SADC, the project also aims to stimulate investment, create jobs, and improve infrastructure along the corridor. However, its success will depend on securing adequate financing and coordinating with regional partners, including Mozambique, to ensure seamless connectivity to export routes.
