‘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.