Zambia is set to benefit from renewed Chinese interest in its transport and energy infrastructure, following a high level visit by executives from China Railway Construction Company and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation to Kapiri Mposhi.
The delegation is assessing the feasibility of developing a modern dry port in the area, a project intended to strengthen rail integration between the TAZARA line and the Zambia Railways network. The proposed facility is expected to improve cargo handling efficiency and reinforce Zambia’s role as a regional transit and logistics centre.
As part of the visit, the team is conducting on-site assessments to guide the design and implementation of the planned logistics hub. The project forms part of broader efforts to modernise rail infrastructure and unlock greater value from regional trade corridors.
Speaking during engagements with Zambian authorities in Lusaka, CRCC Chief Economist Sun Gongxin indicated that the company is also considering investments in new power generation projects. These initiatives would be developed in partnership with existing mining operations to help secure reliable energy supply for industrial users.
He further noted that discussions are underway with the Industrial Development Corporation and Zambia Railways Limited on the rehabilitation of a key rail section linking Kapiri Mposhi and Ndola, covering roughly 140 kilometres, with the possibility of extending the line toward Sakania near the Democratic Republic of Congo border.
Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development, Siazongo Siakalenge, welcomed the engagement, saying the government views the proposed investments as critical to transforming the rail sector. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would support the upgrade of TAZARA into a modern railway system and contribute meaningfully to economic growth, adding that authorities expect the projects to be delivered within agreed timelines.
