Journeying from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi: A Snapshot of TAZARA
Traveling by train from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia is an experience that showcases the charm and challenges of railway travel in southeastern Africa. Despite its reputation for delays, the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority’s (TAZARA) Mukuba Express offers a budget-friendly route across beautifully contrasting landscapes, making it an appealing choice for both locals and tourists alike.
The Journey Begins
At the Dar es Salaam train station, a sea of travelers filled the waiting area alongside heaps of luggage, as a soft breeze floated through the open windows. Just before the scheduled departure at 3:50 PM, an announcement crackled over the speakers: the train would be leaving two hours late. A collective sigh arose from the crowd; after all, a delay of this magnitude was pretty standard for the TAZARA, which has become synonymous with unexpected wait times.
Scenic Routes and Affordable Travel
The railway meanders from Tanzania’s bustling hub, through the picturesque southern highlands, eventually crossing into Zambia’s rich copper belt. The journey to Kapiri Mposhi stretches over approximately 1,860 kilometers (1,156 miles) and, according to official schedules, should take about 40 hours. For many regular commuters, the train represents an economical method of travel to regions that lack easy access to main highways. For international visitors, it provides a distinctive opportunity to explore Tanzania’s stunning landscapes away from the crowded cities and popular safari parks, assuming they have the luxury of time. A first-class sleeper cabin to Mbeya, a travel hub bordered by breathtaking mountains and coffee plantations, typically costs just above $20.
TAZARA’s Challenges
This year marked the 50th anniversary of TAZARA, yet it has faced ongoing struggles throughout its history, often requiring international funding just for basic maintenance. The train line has failed to maintain the freight capacity it was originally intended for, with aging infrastructure and vehicles suffering from years of underinvestment and inconsistent upkeep.
Unpredictable Conditions
Given the myriad delays and breakdowns, forecasting the exact timing of a TAZARA trip has become almost impossible. Incidents like derailments from improperly loaded cars and deteriorating tracks occur with alarming regularity. Additionally, there have been unfortunate encounters with wildlife; for example, service was halted in August when a passenger train collided with an African buffalo within the confines of Tanzania’s Mwalimu Julius Nyerere National Park.
Recent Incidents and Safety Concerns
Since the start of 2025, TAZARA has faced increasingly severe incidents, including fatalities that underscore the urgent need for infrastructure and safety management upgrades. In April, two locomotives being transported for repairs in Mbeya derailed at a bridge in southern Tanzania, tragically claiming the lives of both drivers. In June, another derailment occurred in Zambia, followed by a rescue train colliding with the derailed train, resulting in the death of one railway employee and injuries to numerous others.
In early September, passenger services were temporarily suspended due to “unexpected operational challenges.” The limited number of operational locomotives had become stranded in Tanzania following a fire damage incident affecting one of the bridges along the railway.
Looking Ahead: Promising Improvements
There is hope on the horizon for TAZARA, thanks to a significant investment by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which has committed $1.4 billion for upgrades over the next three years. While the agreement mentions the continuation of passenger services, construction will inevitably require service interruptions as work progresses.
A large portion of the funds will be dedicated to track rehabilitation, while $400 million will be allocated for acquiring 32 new locomotives and 762 wagons. This overhaul is expected to vastly enhance both freight and passenger transport capabilities, according to TAZARA’s statements. In exchange for their investment, the Chinese corporation will manage TAZARA for 30 years before handing its day-to-day operations back to Tanzanian and Zambian authorities.
Conclusion
Traveling on TAZARA offers an intriguing glimpse into the railway system of southeastern Africa—filled with excitement and unpredictability. As improvements loom on the horizon, one can only hope that these changes will lead to a more reliable and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers.
- TAZARA’s Mukuba Express travels from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi, covering 1,860 km.
- Delays are common, with a two-hour wait considered typical.
- Significant investments are being made to revitalize the aging railway infrastructure.
- Upcoming upgrades aim to improve safety and increase transport capacity.