Keeping Namibia on track

Despite its importance, Namibia’s rail network faces several challenges, including ageing infrastructure, limited coverage, operation inefficiencies and major competition with road transport. And yet, Namibia’s rail network can play a crucial role in supporting the country’s economy and facilitating trade within the Southern African region.

Namibia’s rail system spans approximately 2 700 kilometres, primarily using narrow-gauge tracks (1,067 mm). The network connects key ports like Walvis Bay to inland destinations, including Windhoek, Grootfontein, Tsumeb, and Keetmanshoop.

The railways are primarily used for freight, with limited passenger services. Key transported goods include bulk commodities such as minerals, coal and fuel. Major industries, including mining and logistics, depend on the rail network for cost-effective and reliable transportation of goods.

Namibia’s strategic location as a gateway to Southern Africa makes its rail network vital for regional trade. The Port of Walvis Bay, connected by rail to key inland destinations, serves as a transit hub for neighbouring landlocked countries such as Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

Unfortunately, while rail transport could complement road networks, reducing the cost of moving goods over long distances and minimising environmental impact, this opportunity is not fully harnessed.

The rail system is particularly significant for Namibia’s mining sector. Minerals like uranium, zinc, and copper rely on rail for efficient movement to ports and processing facilities. Similarly, the agricultural sector could use rail to move products such as livestock and crops to markets within Namibia and beyond.



Challenges

Unfortunately, much of the rail infrastructure dates back decades and requires significant modernisation to meet current demands. Furthermore, poor track conditions limit train speeds, reducing efficiency. The rail network also does not serve all parts of the country, particularly remote areas, limiting its accessibility and integration with other transport modes.

As rail operator, TransNamib continues to face financial and operational challenges, including outdated rolling stock and inadequate maintenance, while Namibia’s well-developed road network often competes with rail for freight transport, particularly for time-sensitive goods.

Recognising the importance of rail, the government, with support from international partners, is investing in modernisation and expansion projects. These include:

• Walvis Bay - Kranzberg line upgrade: This major project aims to improve the connection between the Port of Walvis Bay and inland destinations by upgrading tracks to accommodate heavier loads and faster trains.

• Trans-Kalahari Railway: This proposed rail link would connect Walvis Bay to Botswana’s coal fields, boosting exports and regional trade.

• Rehabilitation of existing lines: Efforts are underway to rehabilitate critical sections of the network, such as the Windhoek-Otjiwarongo line, to enhance safety and efficiency.



Potential

Namibia’s rail network has the potential to play an even greater role in regional development and trade. By addressing infrastructure deficits and operational inefficiencies, the rail system can better compete with road transport and support the country’s Vision 2030 goals of economic growth and industrialisation.

Moreover, the integration of rail with ports and roads through multimodal transport systems will position Namibia as a logistics hub for Southern Africa. Investments in green rail technology and renewable energy-powered trains could further enhance the sustainability of the sector.