Zimbabwe Opens US$1.5 Million Lithium Transshipment Rail Siding To Boost Mineral Exports

By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has strengthened its mineral export infrastructure after commissioning a US$1.5 million lithium transshipment rail siding in West Nicholson, Matabeleland South.

The new facility has already handled its first shipment of lithium concentrate from Gwanda, with the consignment transported by rail to the Port of Maputo in Mozambique.

The project is expected to improve the movement of minerals while reducing dependence on road transportation for heavy cargo.


Rail project targets growing lithium industry
According to ZBC, the West Nicholson siding was developed through a partnership between Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway (BBR), Silvergill and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ).

Although initially focused on lithium concentrates, the facility has been designed to handle other key minerals, including chrome, ferrochrome and iron ore.

The development is expected to position Matabeleland South as an important logistics centre for bulk mineral exports as Zimbabwe seeks to increase its participation in the global critical minerals market.

BBR highlights benefits of rail freight
BBR general manager Khumbulani Tendai Mabvura said the new facility represents a major step towards creating efficient mineral transport networks.

He said the first train leaving the siding carried processed lithium concentrates destined for international markets through Maputo.


Mabvura said rail provides mining companies with a safer and more sustainable alternative to transporting large volumes of cargo by road.

He added that increased use of rail would help reduce pressure on Zimbabwe’s roads, lowering maintenance costs and improving road safety.

Government pushes infrastructure-led growth
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe described the project as an example of successful cooperation between Government and the private sector.

He said the rail siding supports efforts to transform Zimbabwe into a regional logistics and trade hub by improving links between mineral-producing areas and international markets.

According to the minister, the project aligns with the country’s development plans, including the National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030, which focus on infrastructure development, industrialisation and economic growth.

Calls for more mineral cargo to move by rail
Mabvura said Zimbabwe should consider allocating a portion of bulk mineral transportation to rail in order to maximise the benefits of the country’s railway network.

He said combining road and rail transport would improve efficiency while reducing congestion, road damage and environmental impact caused by heavy trucks.

The project comes as Government continues efforts to revive the NRZ through infrastructure rehabilitation, strategic corridor upgrades and greater private sector involvement.