‘Bridge country status’ keeps Swazi rail viable

Swaziland Railway owes its
economic viability to the nation’s
status as a “bridge country,”
through which cargo from neighbouring
nations passes. Swaziland has its own
imports, including industrial inputs, to
bring in by rail, and exports, mostly
coal, agricultural products and finished
garments, to bring out on rail wagons.
But it is the considerable volume of
goods making their way north-south
from Komatipoort en route to Durban
that brings in important revenue.
So it was logical when Lesotho
decided to investigate the creation of
its own rail system that it turned to
Swaziland Railway for advice.
“They were interested in hearing
about cross-border transport of
cargo,” said Gideon Mahlalela, CEO
of Swaziland Railway and recent
president of the Southern Africa
Railway Association (Sara).
“They see Lesotho as a way for
South Africa’s rail cargo to go to
destinations by more direct routes
through their country,” he said. “We
are advising them.”
Interconnectivity with its
neighbours characterises Swaziland
Railway, which turns 45 years old
in 2009.
The company leases its five
locomotives from Transnet Freight
Rail, but owns its own oil wagons
and sugar wagons. All Swaziland’s
petroleum products come from SA, and
sugar continues to be the country’s top
export in terms of volumes.