Mozambique Joins Forces with AFD and EU for One Hundred Forty-Five Million Euro Rail Expansion to Boost Tourism and Connectivity Between Maputo and Ressano Garcia: Know More

Published on July 22, 2025

A major milestone in the upgrade of Mozambique’s rail network has been achieved after CMF managed to win funding to upgrade the vital Maputo–Ressano Garcia railway link. Three accords have been reached with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) to finance the project, which represents a major milestone for passenger transport and regional integration. The project, which has a budget of €145 million, will double the capacity of the rail line and install a new signaling system that will greatly improve the throughput of goods in Southern Mozambique.

The transaction includes two non-sovereign loans from AFD totaling $133 million and a €30 million grant from the European Union. The expansion and modernisation are expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of the line – a key corridor linking Mozambique’s capital city Maputo with the South African border at Ressano Garcia.

Doubling the Maputo–Ressano Garcia Railway Line

Both the Maputo–Ressano Garcia railway line will be doubled, which is also one of the most important parts of this project. Today, the line is an important means of connection between the Mozambican capital and the South African border for passengers and commuter traffic. With the duplication of the track, the project is set to create a higher carrying capacity for rail traffic providing a more dependable and effective mode of travel between Mozambique and South Africa.

The Maputo-Ressano Garcia route is a critical axis for both locals as well as international tourists travelling to Mozambique and also to back up Angola. The railway line, on completion, will be able to take more load, which will reduce the traffic disturbances and also contribute to decongestion. This will be of particular value at times of high demand, such as the tourism business, which is set to benefit from increased access to popular attractions in southern Mozambique, such as the capital Maputo and other coastal areas..

Modernizing the Signaling System for Safety and Efficiency

Simultaneously with the new developement of the track the existing signal system of the railway line will be renewed by a modern and fail-safe system. This work will minimize potential accidents and congestion causing delays and enhance safety and capacity. It specifically will enable more efficient rail traffic coordination, which will help relieve operational choke points and provide a smoother experience for passengers.

Better infrastructure is important, not just because it means faster and safer journeys for passengers, but also because it makes the whole railway network more reliable. This is crucial as it will contribute to taking the Mozambican rail network to an international level, being more attractive to the tourism market and the movement of persons in Southern Africa.

Boosting Regional Connectivity and Tourism

The development of the Maputo–Ressano Garcia railway corridor will radically change the connectivity and tourism in the region. This railroad also seeks to increase connections between Mozambique and South Africa and so help promote the tourism of both countries. Now, South African tourists will be able to ease their way over the border into some of Mozambique’s most loved tourist hot spots like Maputo, Inhaca Island and the coastline further up north. Furthermore, visitors from Mozambique, will also have easier access to South Africa’s top attractions.

In addition, the enhanced rail link will offer an environmentally responsible and more convenient alternative to commuter travel. Rail transportation is usually considered to be safer and more efficient, and will also aid in easing road traffic congestion and vehicle emissions, which is in line with regional ambitions for greener travel modes.

The project will also provide a boost to local businesses, creating jobs and opportunities in the rail and tourism sectors. With improved infrastructure, more international visitors will be able to reach Mozambique’s key cultural, historical, and natural sites, helping to drive the country’s tourism economy.

Details of the Rail Expansion Plan

• Route Expansion: The key section of the Maputo–Ressano Garcia railway line that is being expanded connects Maputo, the vibrant capital of Mozambique, to Ressano Garcia, which lies on the South African border. This region serves as a vital link for both passenger and freight transport, but with a focus on passenger traffic in this project, the rail system is expected to provide seamless travel options for those wishing to cross the border or explore Mozambique’s diverse regions.
• Track Doubling: By doubling the tracks, the rail line will be able to accommodate more passengers per trip, significantly reducing overcrowding and wait times for travelers. It will also allow for increased train frequency, which is essential for accommodating high volumes of passengers, especially during tourist seasons and holidays.
• Upgraded Signaling: The new signaling system will modernize the entire railway operation, ensuring smooth operations and faster turnaround times for trains. This upgrade will help mitigate delays and improve train punctuality, which will be essential for attracting tourists who prioritize efficiency in their travel.
• Expected Completion and Benefits: The railway expansion is expected to reduce travel time between Maputo and Ressano Garcia, making it easier for travelers to get between Mozambique and South Africa. The project is also designed to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Mozambique’s national climate goals. With the rail system’s capacity and efficiency increased, both locals and international tourists will benefit from faster, safer, and more reliable transport options.

Impact on Passengers and Tourism Growth

The benefits of this growth are obvious for passengers. Get a quote The greater rail capacity will also make the journey between Mozambique and South Africa more effective, cheaper and with added levels of comfort. It’s no mystery why rail is often more reliable, safer and potentially more eco-friendly than automotive transportation, and in time, it will also become a more sensible option to commuters and visitors alike as well.

There are also potential windfalls for Mozambique’s tourism sector. Enhanced rail transport infrastructure will facilitate tourists inbound to Maputo and other coastal areas, which are famous for their beautiful beaches, unique fauna and flora and culture heritage. Also bought into the deal are increased opportunities for South African tourists to dive in Mozambique, which will no doubt stimulate the tourism in Mozambique.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable and Connected Future

The extension of the Maputo–Ressano Garcia railway correlate has long been seen as a step forward for Mozambique’s transport and tourism scene. With projects like these, Mozambique is working towards becoming one of the most critical players in Southern Africa for its travel and tourism options, particularly as alternative travel options multiply. With improved rail network and a commitment to a more environmentally-friendly land transport system, the nation is poised to attract more tourists and help boost the economy for years to come.