Tanzania and Burundi have officially launched construction of a modern standard gauge railway (SGR) linking Uvinza in western Tanzania to Musongati in eastern Burundi, marking East Africa’s first cross-border SGR project.
The 240-kilometre line, estimated at $2.15 billion, will be built over five years. Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, who laid the foundation stone, assured both nations that work will begin on schedule, stressing the railway’s potential to transform regional trade and connectivity.
“Once completed, passengers will travel from Musongati to Dar es Salaam in a single day. Cargo that now takes four days by truck from Dar es Salaam to Bujumbura will make the journey in just 20 hours,” Majaliwa said. He added that the railway will open new investment opportunities and deepen economic ties between the two neighbours.
Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye described the project as a long-awaited dream, highlighting its importance for exporting Burundi’s vast mineral wealth, particularly nickel. “Many asked how we would transport the minerals. This railway is the answer,” he said, also outlining ambitions to eventually extend the line to the Democratic Republic of Congo and West Africa’s Atlantic coast.
Led by China Railway Group Limited, the fully electrified railway will be built to international standard gauge (1,435 mm) and is expected to be completed by 2030.
Officials say the project will serve as a vital transport corridor between Tanzania and Burundi, helping to spur regional economic growth and accelerate East African integration.
