SA-led consortium takes over Uganda-Kenyan railways

CLIVE EMDON THE TAKEOVER of Uganda Railways by South African-led consortium Rift Valley Railways is seen as a major turning point for the Ugandan economy, according to Ugandan web newscaster, the New Vision. In terms of the 25-year concession agreement, the railway’s new owners will increase the number of wagons and engines on the route; rehabilitate the creaking line; and shorten the cargo transit times from Mombasa to Kampala to one week from the current three weeks. It is expected to increase railway's share of cargo passing through the route to 75% from the current 20%. “The privatisation of the railway is overdue. As a landlocked country interested in export-led growth, cheap transport to external markets is critical, the report states.