The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) General Manager, Respina Zinyanduko, has left the parastatal after three years in the role.
Zinyanduko, a lawyer, was appointed as NRZ’s substantive general manager in December 2021, after acting in the role since February of that year.
She made history as the first woman to hold the position in the 124-year history of the railways.
In a statement on Friday, NRZ said Zinyanduko’s departure was due to the need to realign and restructure the business in line with shareholder expectations.
Ainah Dube-Kaguru has been appointed as Acting General Manager, effective January 31, 2025, until a new substantive General Manager is appointed. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The Board of Directors of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) wishes to inform members of the public that Ms. Respina Zinyanduko has ceased to be the General Manager of the NRZ with effect from 31 January 2025.
This has been necessitated by the need to realign and restructure the NRZ business in line with the expectation of the shareholder.
The NRZ Board, Management and Staff would like to take this opportunity to thank Ms. Zinyanduko for the time she served as General Manager of the National Railways of Zimbabwe and wish her well in her future endeavours.
In the interim, the Board has appointed Mrs. Ainah Dube-Kaguru as the Acting General Manager with effect from 31 January 2025 until a substantive General Manager has been appointed.
</blockquote>
Former trade unionist and opposition politician Linda Masarira commended the NRZ for replacing a woman with another in the role of General Manager. She wrote on X:
<blockquote>
It is commendable that the appointing authority has ensured continuity in women’s leadership by replacing one woman with another.
This is a progressive step towards gender inclusivity in key leadership positions.
Furthermore, we acknowledge the long-overdue decision to relieve Ms. Respina Zinyanduko of her duties.
Her tenure was marred by allegations of unethical conduct, which significantly compromised the integrity and efficiency of NRZ.
The decision to realign and restructure the institution is a welcome development that should be followed by a thorough audit and accountability process to restore public confidence.
We urge the new Acting General Manager to prioritize transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder engagement in steering NRZ towards recovery and stability.
The railway sector remains a critical pillar of our economy, and we hope this change marks the beginning of much-needed reforms.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

Respina Zinyanduko has left her job as the General Manager of NRZ after three years. She was the first woman to hold this position in the history of the railways. Ainah Dube-Kaguru has been appointed as the new Acting General Manager. Some people are happy that another woman is in charge, but others think Zinyanduko should have left earlier due to allegations of bad behavior. The NRZ wants to make changes to be better and more transparent. They hope these changes will help the railway sector and the country's economy.

Respina Zinyanduko Leaves NRZ, Dube-Kaguru Appointed Acting General Manager

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has denied involvement in a fake viral train driver training advert. The ad asked for applications via Gmail and payments through Ecocash.
After the advert, featuring Tatenda Ruze’s phone number circulated on social media, the NRZ responded.
In their statement, the NRZ urged the public not to engage with the scammer or share personal or financial information. The NRZ said:
<blockquote>
A fake advert on NRZ Train Driver course asking people to submit applications through a Gmail account and make payments to an Ecocash account is circulating on social media. The suspected scammer is using the name Tatenda Ruze and phone number +263782406319.
Do not engage with this scammer or provide any personal or financial information.
The NRZ advises members of the public that it does not use free email services such as Gmail accounts for official communications while payments are channelled through bank accounts in NRZ’s name.
The NRZ will never ask people to pay for service through personal mobile phone numbers.
The NRZ urges people who have responded to the fake advert and paid money to report to the nearest police station.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Civil Vehicle Registry (CVR) warned about a fraudster posing as a Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) employee in Eastlea, Harare.
The CVR revealed the suspect sent text messages to prospective drivers, claiming their licenses were ready and requesting a $50 payment.
Victims were instructed to send money via EcoCash or OneMoney. After payment, the fraudster blocked communication, leaving victims without licenses or contact options.

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) says there's a fake ad for train driver training on social media. The ad asks for applications through Gmail and payments through Ecocash. NRZ warns not to give personal or financial info. NRZ doesn't use Gmail for official work or ask for payment through personal phone numbers. They advise victims to report to the police if they paid money. The Civil Vehicle Registry (CVR) also warned about a fraudster pretending to be from the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) in Eastlea, Harare, asking for $50 for licenses via EcoCash or OneMoney.

Public Advised To Ignore Fake NRZ Training Ad On Social Media

A police officer was injured on Saturday evening when the official vehicle he was driving was struck by a train at a level crossing in Marondera.
In a statement posted on the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) official X page, the NRZ said the officer was chasing a fleeing kombi when the collision occurred. It reads:
<blockquote>
A Police officer was injured after an official vehicle he was driving was hit by a train at a level crossing in Marondera on Saturday evening.
The police officer failed to observe level crossing rules which instruct all drivers to stop and only proceed after establishing there is no train approaching. Indications are that the officer was chasing after a fleeing kombi.
The NRZ urges motorists, including law enforcement agents, to always exercise caution when approaching level crossings and never try to race an approaching train.
</blockquote>
In October 2024, another police officer was injured when his vehicle, a Honda Fit, was hit by a train while attempting to pass a level crossing near Mabvuku, Harare.
The police officer attempted to beat the train to the crossing point, resulting in the collision which left his car, badly damaged.

A police officer got hurt when a train hit his car during a chase in Marondera. The officer was not following safety rules at a level crossing. The National Railways of Zimbabwe said the officer was trying to catch a runaway kombi. They warn everyone to be careful at level crossings and never race a train. This is not the first time a police officer has been injured by a train at a crossing. In October 2024, another officer's Honda Fit was hit when he tried to beat the train. It is dangerous to not follow the rules at train crossings.

ZRP Vehicle Struck By Train During Kombi Pursuit

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has successfully repaired the section of the Rutenga-Chicualacuala line that was damaged by heavy rainfall.
In a statement issued this Monday, the NRZ confirmed that the line was reopened to traffic just before 11 PM on Sunday, saying:
<blockquote>
The NRZ informs all its stakeholders that the rehabilitation of the section of the Rutenga-Chicualacuala line, which was washed away by rainwater, has been completed. The line was reopened to traffic last night at 2250hrs.
We applaud the employees who worked tirelessly to ensure that the tracks were restored and trains can run smoothly.
</blockquote>
On Friday, January 17, the NRZ reported major washaways on several sections of its rail lines due to the ongoing heavy rains.
The parastatal stated that the South East Line has been especially impacted, with 360 meters of track washed away on the Rutenga-Mbizi section and another 120 meters lost on the Rutenga-Beitbridge line.
The NRZ explained that these areas typically experience below-average rainfall, but are now facing unusually high rainfall, a trend attributed to climate change.
While similar washaways have occurred in the past, including on the Mozambican side of the border, the company noted that the current damage is the most severe in recent years.

The NRZ fixed a train track damaged by rain. The track washed away but now it's fixed. The repair was completed on Sunday night. The heavy rains caused lots of damage to other train tracks too. Climate change is making the rain worse. The company fixed the track so trains can run smoothly again. The damage this time was the worst in many years. The NRZ praised its workers for fixing the track.

NRZ Restores Rutenga-Chicualacuala Rail Line After Storm Damage

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has reported unprecedented washaways on parts of its rail lines due to the ongoing heavy rains.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 17, the NRZ said the South East Line has been particularly affected, with 360 meters of track washed away on the Rutenga-Mbizi section and another 120 meters lost on the Rutenga-Beitbridge line.
The NRZ explained that these areas typically receive below-average rainfall each year, but are now experiencing unusually high rainfall due to climate change.
The statement further explained that these regions are particularly vulnerable to such incidents due to their natural topography.
While similar washaways have occurred in the past, including on the Mozambican side of the border, the current damage is the most severe in recent years. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) wishes to inform the public, customers and all stakeholders that due to the ongoing incessant rains, we are experiencing washaways on some parts of our lines, particularly on the South East Line.
The heavy rainfall has resulted in the water flow overloading existing drainage structures.
Areas that have been adversely affected include the Rutenga-Mbizi section where 360 metres of tracks were washed away and also a section along the Rutenga-Beitbridge line where 120 metres of tracks were washed away, with gullies reaching two metres in some areas.
These are areas that normally receive below average rainfall per year and, due to climate change, they are 
now getting unusually high rainfall.
The area is susceptible to such incidents because of its natural topographic formation. Although we have previously had similar experiences in the same corridor over the past few years, including on the Mozambican side, this has been worse than any wash away we have seen before.
We would also like to assure the nation that our infrastructure teams are working around the clock to restore the track and ensure safe resumption of train operations.
Until repairs are completed, the affected section of the line will remain temporarily suspended.
Realigning of the line is now at 90% complete. The teams are now working on reballasting the area and applying quarry fines before the line can be reopened.
Currently, we have wagons loaded with ballast and quarry fines from our Nalatale Quarry Mine in Shangani already on the way to the sites and we are expecting the line to reopen and return to full functionality on Saturday, 18 January 2025.
We are pleased to report that no injuries to personnel or damage to rolling stock have been recorded.
To our valued customers and all stakeholders, we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is having issues with their rail lines because of heavy rains. Parts of the rail lines have been washed away, especially on the South East Line. This is happening because the areas are getting more rain than usual due to climate change. The NRZ is working hard to fix the tracks and hopes to have the line up and running again soon. No one has been hurt, and they are sorry for any inconvenience.

Heavy Rains Cause Unprecedented Washaways On NRZ Rail Lines

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has addressed a video circulating online that shows a shunt train hauling one loaded drop side wagon, which was misinterpreted as a mainline train transporting a single wagon.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 9, the NRZ explained that it operates two types of trains—main line and shunt trains.
Main line trains traverse long distances between towns and cities, using heavier locomotives that can haul up to 1700 gross tonnes.
Shunt trains, on the other hand, are used for placing and clearing traffic or empty wagons from customer sidings, as well as for assembling long-haul trains (putting several wagons together) or breaking them apart at their destination. These trains use lighter locomotives that can haul up to 700 gross tonnes.
The NRZ clarified that the train in the video is a shunt train, not a mainline train. It is specifically designed for smaller tasks, such as hauling one loaded wagon with 40 net tonnes of cargo for a client. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The NRZ wishes to clarify some misinformation going on regarding one of our shunt trains filmed hauling one loaded drop-side wagon.
It appears whoever filmed and distributed the footage online misconstrued that it was one of our mainline trains transporting one wagon.
As a matter of clarification, the NRZ has two types of trains which operate within its system, and these are known as main line and shunt trains.
Further, we use different types of locomotives to haul these trains, mainline locomotives are heavier and haul a maximum of 1700 gross tonnes whilst the shunt locomotive are lighter and thus haul a maximum of 700 gross tonnes.
The main line train is the one which traverses long distances between towns and cities while the shunt train is used for placing and clearing traffic or empty wagons from customer siding and for building a long-haultrain (putting several wagons together to make a train) or breaking a train when it arrives at the destination in preparation to place the cargo at different customer sidings.
The train appearing in the concerned video is a shunt train being hauled by our less heavy locomotive (shunt loco) and pulling one loaded wagon with 40 net tonnes of cargo for one of our clients.
This shunt train is precisely meant to carry out such small tasks and is never used for long-haul movement of cargo.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) explained that the video circulating online shows a shunt train, not a mainline train. Main line trains travel long distances with heavier locomotives, while shunt trains are used for smaller tasks with lighter locomotives. The train in the video was hauling one loaded wagon for a client. NRZ wants to clear up confusion about the type of train shown in the video. Shunt trains are not for long-haul movement of cargo, but for smaller jobs like putting together or breaking apart trains.

NRZ Sets The Record Straight On Viral Train Footage

A 62-year-old homeless man in Bulawayo narrowly escaped death on Saturday morning after nearly being crushed by a moving train while sleeping on the railway tracks beneath the Luveve Flyover.
The victim, Everton Sithole, was admitted to Mpilo Central Hospital with head and leg injuries.
Inspector Abednico Ncube, spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo Province, confirmed the incident to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/man-survives-train-collision-while-sleeping-on-tracks/">Chronicle</a>. He said:
<blockquote>
The incident occurred on Saturday morning when a train driver employed by the Beitbridge-Bulawayo Railway, coming from Cement Siding and headed towards Mpopoma, spotted the victim sleeping on a rail track.
The engineman saw something that looked like a heap of garbage on the railway sleepers, but when the train was about two metres away, he realised it was a human covering his head with a cloth.
The victim immediately raised his head and was hit by the right side of the train bumper. The victim sustained head injuries and bruises on both legs.
The engineman managed to stop about 15 metres away from the scene of the accident. He then summoned an ambulance that ferried the victim to Mpilo Hospital.
</blockquote>
Inspector Ncube reported that the man’s condition is stable and confirmed that a police report has been filed.
Andrew Kunambura, the public relations manager for the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), also confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the increasing number of train accidents involving people.
Five people were injured in eight separate incidents over five days between 19 and 23 October 2024.
Kunambura urged motorists to stop at all level crossings and only proceed when certain that there is no train approaching.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A 62-year-old man was hit by a train while sleeping on tracks in Bulawayo. Thankfully, he survived with injuries to his head and leg. The train driver noticed him just in time and stopped the train before it was too late. The man is now in the hospital and his condition is stable. The National Railways of Zimbabwe is worried about the increasing number of train accidents involving people. They are reminding everyone to be careful at railway crossings to avoid accidents. It's important to always look out for trains before crossing the tracks.

62-Year-Old Man Hit By Train While Sleeping On Tracks In Bulawayo

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has determined that a fire which destroyed 40 decommissioned coaches at its main station in Bulawayo in September may have been caused by a cigarette stub left by an employee, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/cigarette-stub-started-fire-that-destroyed-decommissioned-coaches-worth-us40000-nrz/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Initially, the parastatal suspected foul play, as the incident followed another fire involving coaches in Harare, raising suspicions of arson.
However, NRZ general manager Respina Zinyanduko, appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts, revealed that internal investigations suggest the fire was likely caused by a discarded cigarette stub. She said:
<blockquote>
The initial report that I got from loss control as well as the report I got from a commission of inquiry that we set, it constituted of different departments of NRZ has indicated that it could be a fire was as a result of some employees, because we do not allow some people to smoke at work, some employees could have taken shelter in those coaches trying to hide and smoking a bit.
One of them might have left a stub that was still burning and there was the wind; it then resulted in the spread of fire.
</blockquote>
Zinyanduko told the Committee that the decommissioned coaches had surpassed their operational lifespan and were awaiting disposal as scrap.
Due to the fire, the NRZ incurred a loss of US$40,000 in the value of these coaches. Said Zinyanduko:
<blockquote>
The value that was lost was minimal because we had taken the seats from these coaches and they were fitted to those which were operational.
These were more like shells that were parked to be refurbished in the future or disposed of.
The value that was there was on the scrap value of the assets, I examined the coaches one by one myself and they are still in a condition in which we can dispose of them as scrap metal.
Those coaches in our books were carrying a value of about US$1,000 each because they were just shells.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A fire destroyed 40 old train coaches in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. At first, people thought it was done on purpose, but it turns out it might have been caused by a cigarette stub left by an employee. The train company, NRZ, lost $40,000 because of the fire, but the coaches were old and already useless. The company had plans to dispose of them as scrap. It was a big loss, but not as big as it could have been.

Discarded Cigarette Stub May Have Caused Fire That Destroyed 40 NRZ Coaches In Bulawayo

A bus collided with a locomotive at the Paisley Level Crossing along Lytton Road in Harare on Wednesday, 16 October.
In a statement, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) said that the bus driver attempted to cross the railway line ahead of the approaching train.
The impact caused the bus to hit three cars using it as cover to beat the train to the crossing. Said the NRZ:
<blockquote>
A bus was hit by a locomotive at the Paisley Level Crossing along Lytton Road in Harare earlier today after the driver tried to race cross the railway line in front of the moving loco.
The impact resulted in the bus subsequently hitting three cars which were using the bus as a cover in their attempt to beat the train to the crossing point.
Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were recorded.
</blockquote>
The NRZ reminded all road users, especially public transport drivers, to stop at level crossings and ensure no trains are approaching. It said:
<blockquote>
The NRZ would like to remind all road users, especially public transport drivers, to always stop at level crossings and check if there are no trains approaching. Failure to do so may lead to tragic accidents.
We urge drivers to be vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines at all level crossings.
</blockquote>
In July this year, a lorry was hit by a train on the Harare-Mutare railway line near Melfort after the driver of the lorry attempted to race a train at a level crossing on Sunday night.
The lorry driver tried to beat the oncoming train to the level crossing, leading to the collision.
That same month, several schoolchildren were injured when their school bus was struck by a train at the Wilton Level Crossing in Mutare.
The bus driver of the Versatile Academy school bus reportedly failed to follow level crossing safety protocols and tried to cross the tracks ahead of the approaching train.
The Mutare incident occurred just over a week after a separate incident in Harare, where an AVM bus carrying 66 passengers collided with a train at a railway-level crossing, resulting in one fatality and leaving seven others injured.
The previous accident took place on June 25, 2024, at the intersection of Paisley Road and Lyton Road in Harare, around 4:30 AM.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the bus driver failed to stop at the railway crossing, leading to the collision with the train.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A bus crashed into a train at a crossing in Harare because the bus driver tried to go fast in front of the train. The bus hit three cars too. Nobody got hurt, but the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) reminded everyone to stop at crossings to be safe. In other accidents before, a truck and a school bus also got hit by trains because they tried to rush through crossings. It's important for drivers to be careful and follow the rules to avoid scary accidents like these.

Bus Collides With Train At Paisley Level Crossing In Harare

The Zimbabwe Amalgamated Railway Workers Union (ZARWU) has strongly condemned the suspected arson attacks on National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) premises in Bulawayo and Harare.
According to NRZ, a fire on September 16, 2024, at the Bulawayo mechanical workshops destroyed 44 decommissioned passenger coaches. On September 18, three coaches were set ablaze at the Harare shunters’ complex.
In a statement released on Friday, September 20, ZARWU General Secretary Nhamo Bepete characterised the incidents as well-coordinated acts of arson. He said:
<blockquote>
These two incidents appeared to be well-coordinated arson attacks on this national asset. It must be noted that for whatever reason these attacks are meant for, ZARWU condemns in the strongest terms such shameful, archaic and barbaric acts meant to harm our national asset. In fact, such retrogressive acts must not be allowed to take place in our lifetime, not again.
We strongly believe that these attacks are meant to water down the achievements that the NRZ Board and Management have made in their quest to recapitalise and modernise our Railway system.
Furthermore, the Railway Industry has been enjoying a generally peaceful environment under the stewardship of the General Manager Ms. R Zinyanduko who has from the time of her appointment utilised social dialogue with social partners to develop the Railways.
As workers, we want to re-affirm our resolve and commitment to protect this national asset which was created out of our forefathers’ blood and sweat.
Thousands of workers draw their livelihoods from NRZ and surely thousands of workers can not just stand aside and watch this existential threat to our livelihoods unfolding without taking appropriate lawful actions to assist the police in their investigations.
</blockquote>
ZARWU has called on the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to intensify their investigations into the suspected arson incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Workers Union is very upset about fires at train stations in Zimbabwe. They say it was on purpose to harm the train system. They think it's bad and want the police to find who did it and punish them. The Union thinks the train system has been doing well and doesn't want it ruined. They want to protect their jobs and the trains that their ancestors worked hard to build. The police are being asked to do a good job in finding the people who started the fires.

Workers Union Condemns Suspected Arson Attacks On NRZ Premises

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has reported a series of fire outbreaks at its facilities over the past week, which they believe may be the result of coordinated arson attacks rather than random incidents.
In a statement released on Thursday, September 19, NRZ Board Chairman Mike Madiro detailed two significant incidents.
The first fire occurred on Monday at the NRZ Mechanical Workshops in Bulawayo which destroyed 44 decommissioned passenger coaches.
Just two days later, on Wednesday, a second fire broke out at the shunters complex in Harare. Said Madiro:
<blockquote>
The NRZ has over the course of the week experienced a spat of fire outbreaks at its premises which appear to be coordinated arson attacks.
The first fire broke out on Monday at the NRZ Mechanical workshops in Bulawayo destroying 44 decommissioned passenger coaches.
The second incident took place on Wednesday at the shunters complex in Harare where three coaches have been torched.
We strongly suspect that these incidences are a result of foul play.
The NRZ and the Zimbabwe Republic Police have since opened investigations into the matter and no stone will be left unturned.
</blockquote>
Madiro warned the suspected arsonists that the authorities are actively investigating and that they will be held accountable for their actions.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe have had some of their places catch fire in a week. They think someone did it on purpose, not by accident. The first fire was in Bulawayo and destroyed a lot of old train carriages. The second fire happened in Harare at a different place. The NRZ and the police are looking into it to find out who did it. They say the people who started the fires will get in trouble.

NRZ Suspects Coordinated Arson In Recent Fire Incidents At Premises

The National Railways of Zimbabwe has confirmed that a total of 51 decommissioned coaches were destroyed in a fire that broke out at the Bulawayo main station on Monday afternoon.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/nrz-fire-incident-51-passenger-coaches-reduced-to-shells/">Sunday News</a> on Tuesday, NRZ Public Relations Manager Andrew Kunambura said that the value of the damage and the cause of the fire has yet to be determined. He said:
<blockquote>
A total of 51 decommissioned passenger coaches were burnt by the fire which broke out on Monday around 1.30 PM.
The value of the burnt coaches is yet to be ascertained but since they were decommissioned, what it means is that we can only ascertain their disposable value as scrap.
We, together with the police and Fire Brigade, are still investigating the possible cause of the fire and we will update once the investigations are done.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said the coaches had been decommissioned years ago after exceeding their lifespan and were awaiting disposal as scrap.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) lost 51 old train coaches in a fire at the Bulawayo station. The cause of the fire is unknown. The value of the damage is not yet calculated. The coaches were old and waiting to be scrapped. The NRZ is investigating with the police and fire department to find out how the fire started. The coaches had been out of use for many years.

NRZ Confirms Loss Of 51 Coaches In Station Fire

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has refuted recent claims circulating on social media regarding its property holdings.
According to a statement released on Sunday, August 25, NRZ categorically denies owning an extensive portfolio of properties stretching from South Africa to London.
The NRZ also clarified that it does not possess any rights or control over properties associated with the NRZ Contributory Pension Fund.
The statement further addressed rumours about the extent of land ownership along its railway lines.
The NRZ asserted that it does not own or have legal rights to a 2-kilometre-wide strip of land on either side of its railway tracks.
Instead, the accurate information, according to the NRZ, is that the parastatal’s jurisdiction is limited to a Railway Reserve Land strip measuring 45 meters on either side of the tracks. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
CLARIFICATION ON SOME SOCIAL MEDIA MISCONCEPTIONS REGARDING NRZ PROPERTIES
The NRZ wishes to clarify certain misconceptions which have been trending on social media recently. Firstly, the NRZ does not own any shares and has no direct or indirect link, right or benefit from the London Stock Exchange.
Furthermore, NRZ does not own any property in the UK as some X users have claimed. NRZ has often been confused with the NRZ Contributory Pension Fund, especially on matters relating to property ownership both within and outside Zimbabwe.  The two are separate entities that are accountable individually.
NRZ has no rights nor control over properties owned by the Pension Fund. The relationship between the NRZ and the Pension Fund is that the NRZ is the sponsoring employer and as such, is adequately informed that the fund’s 
offshore properties are well-managed and proceeds are benefiting the membership.
The NRZ clarified this position in a recent presentation to the Joint sitting of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and Transport and Infrastructural Development.
Secondly, there are claims that the NRZ owns and has a legal right to 2km of land on either side of the railway line. Nothing can be further from the truth.
The correct position is that 45 metres of land on either side of the tracks is regarded as Railway Reserve Land and is legally gazetted as such. Such land is reserved for future railway expansion.
Further to that, the NRZ does not own an inch of land in Johannesburg and has no properties in, Zambia and Botswana.
Thirdly, Rhodesia Railways used to own properties in Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa. The Rhodesia Railways assets were shared between successor railway entities, Zambia Railways Limited and National Railways of Zimbabwe.
The properties were being managed by a joint committee from both Zimbabwe and Zambia called the Higher Authority.
The Botswana line and properties as well as a few houses in Mafikeng, South Africa were thus disposed by the Higher Authority to the Botswana Government and sitting tenants respectively in the 1990s.
The mining rights in South Africa that were given to Rhodesia Railways by the late Cecil John Rhodes are jointly owned by NRZ, Zambia Railways and South Africa’s state mining entity called Africa Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation (AEMFC) at 33.33% shareholding apiece.
These are managed by an entity called Pan African Minerals Development Company (PAMDC). It should be noted that these are only mining rights excluding land ownership and that South African citizens have title deeds on the farms where the mining rights are sitting.
Lastly, it is correct that NRZ used to own houses in most Suburbs in cities like Bulawayo, Harare, Gweru among others.
However, it should be noted that these were disposed to sitting tenants, both before and after independence.
The last such massive employee empowerment programme through selling houses to sitting employee tenants having been done in the 1990s.
It is therefore not true that NRZ still retains ownership of all or most of the houses in these suburbs.
End
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has said that rumors on social media about its properties are not true. They do not own as much property as claimed, including in South Africa and London. NRZ clarified they don't control or have rights over certain properties linked to their pension fund. They also do not own a 2km wide strip of land next to their tracks, only a 45m railway reserve land. NRZ used to own houses in cities but sold them to tenants. The article explains the history of NRZ's property ownership and clarifies misunderstandings.

NRZ Refutes Social Media Claims About Its Assets

Police have said the driver of a bus carrying schoolchildren that was hit by a train in Mutare on Wednesday, July 3, was allegedly wearing earphones at the time of the accident.
This detail raises concerns that the driver’s hearing may have been impaired, possibly contributing to his failure to stop at the Willton Level Crossing.
The Versatile Academy school bus was hit by the train at the Willton Level Crossing yesterday morning.
Earlier that day, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) confirmed the accident and stated that initial investigations indicated the bus driver had failed to follow level crossing safety protocols and tried to cross the tracks ahead of the approaching train.
The NRZ reported that 12 learners were injured in the accident. However, in a subsequent statement released on Wednesday evening, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said that 29 learners were injured and had been referred to Victoria Chitepo Hospital for treatment. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a road traffic accident which occurred at a level railway crossing along Durban Road, Willowton, Mutare on 03/07/24 at around 0730 hours in which a goods train hit a Versatile School bus with learners on board.
As a result, 29 learners were injured and were referred to Victoria Chitepo Hospital for treatment. The bus driver was allegedly putting on earphones when the accident occurred.
</blockquote>
The NRZ said the accident was a stark reminder to all drivers to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to road rules at level crossings.
The railway authority emphasised the importance of drivers being fully attentive and following all safety protocols when approaching and crossing railway tracks.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bus Driver In Mutare Train-Bus Collision Was Wearing Earphones - Police

Pelandaba-Tshabalala Member of Parliament, Joseph Tshuma of the ruling ZANU PF party, has called on the government to assist the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) in rebuilding its fleet of buses.
This, he argues, would eradicate the proliferation of unlicensed “pirate” taxis, commonly known as “mushikashika.”
Speaking in the National Assembly on Tuesday, Tshuma emphasized the need for ZUPCO to acquire all-terrain buses that can navigate both paved routes and dusty roads. Said Tshuma (<a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/capacitate-zupco-nrz-to-eliminate-pirate-taxis-mps/">via Chronicle</a>):
<blockquote>
So, it would be a good thing if the Government capacitates ZUPCO with an adequate complement of buses as this will eliminate pirate taxis.
ZUPCO should be capacitated to buy more buses and they should buy buses that can operate in both urban and rural areas.
Some buses are meant for urban routes on tarred roads only. This needs to be looked into.
</blockquote>
In addition to his call for the government to assist ZUPCO in rebuilding its bus fleet, Tshuma also implored the government to financially empower the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ).
Tshuma argued that by providing the necessary resources, the NRZ would be able to acquire new locomotives and passenger trains. He said:
<blockquote>
The issue of rehabilitating our railway networks is quite important and will benefit our people. This is an issue that we have raised several times as Parliament that our roads are being damaged by large haulage trucks that carry heavy loads.
There is a need for alternatives through the provision of passenger and goods trains so that our goods are carried on locomotives.
There should be additional locomotives that ply different routes across the country. Looking at Harare which has quite a large population, there are areas like Chitungwiza, Norton, and Ruwa which are a bit far away from the Central Business District and need public transportation through the railway line.
</blockquote>
Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator, Discent Bajila (CCC), has urged Parliament to explore alternative means of ensuring ZUPCO’s viability.
According to Bajila, the move to acquire ZUPCO’s debt has failed to produce the desired results, and a new strategic approach is necessary to revive the state-owned public transport company. He said:
<blockquote>
We need now to find a means of making sure that ZUPCO is viable, because despite the debt assumption of 20 years ago, the Debt Assumption Act, making recommendations on reforms that were going to prevent Zupco from being in debt again, ZUPCO is back in debt.
We need to say as we think of recapitalising ZUPCO, we must find other ways because the old ways we have done of saying ZUPCO is in debt, let us give them money, they buy new cars, those cars got defunct.
Again, ZUPCO has problems, we pump money. It has proven that it does not work and the ZUPCO Debt Assumption Act of 2005 is enough proof for this House to consider.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

MPs Call For Government Support To Revitalize NRZ And ZUPCO

40-year-old Farai Moyo from Riverdale farm in Banket was sentenced to 10 years in prison by a Rusape Magistrate for contravening the Railways Act.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), on 4 August 2023, Moyo, together with Never Kasasa, a man only known as Baba Rudo and Forward Isaac Marambanyika who are still at large, planned to steal National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) signal poles along the railway line that links Headlands to Bardley. The NPA added:
<blockquote>
The accused persons left the poles hidden in a bush along the railway line. A patrol officer on duty traced the spoor down after noticing that the poles had been cut and spotted the treasure hidden in a nearby bush. He informed his superior who reported the matter to the Police.
The informant and another NRZ employee were joined by police officers and set up an ambush at the crime scene. On the 6th of August 2023 at around 0400hrs the accused persons arrived at the scene driving a five-tonne truck.
Never Kasasa who was driving, parked the vehicle and switched the lights off. The other suspects loaded the signal poles into the truck. They ran away after the informant fired shots into the air and also hit the tyres of the vehicle.
</blockquote>
Police officers seized the vehicle, searched it and found a wallet containing Kasasa’s particulars and a satchel which contained two hacksaws, hacksaw blades together with some clothes and shoes.
Moyo was arrested the following day.
The value of the vandalised National Railways of Zimbabwe property was worth US$2 300.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Banket Man (40) Imprisoned 10 Years For Stealing NRZ Signal Poles

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has expressed condolences following the death of three National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) employees in a train accident on Monday night.
Tasunungurwa Mapuranga (49), Enock Tawabarira and Pride Femerepi lost their lives after they were trapped in a goods train horse which was carrying 14 wagons after it had derailed and caught fire at the zero-kilometre peg along Zimbabwe-Mozambique Railway Line, Forbes Border, Mutare.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 20 February, Mhona said the loss of the three Railway men is not only a loss to their families and friends but to the entire Ministry, NRZ community and the nation at large. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable F.T. Mhona (MP), Deputy Minister, Hon. J.K. Sacco (MP), Permanent Secretary, Engineer P.J. Makumbe, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) Board, Management and Staff have learnt with great sadness, sorrow and shock of the NRZ train tragic accident which claimed the precious lives of three NRZ employees.
The accident happened on 19 February 2024 between Mutare and Machipanda at or about 2100 Hours.
The employees are: the Senior Engineman, Mr. Tasunungurwa Mapuranga, the Yardman, Mr. Enock Tawabarira and the Security Officer, Mr. Pride Femerepi.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Ministry and all actors in the railways and bulk logistics sector, I wish to extend our deepest and sincere condolences to the grieving and bereaved families, friends and colleagues over the deaths of their loved ones.
The loss of the three Railway men is not only a loss to their families and friends but to the entire Ministry, NRZ community and the nation at large.
It is particularly saddening that the three men met their deaths during the course of duty, where they played an integral role in ensuring the success of NRZ as a mover of bulk commodities.
My Ministry and the NRZ will forever be grateful to them for the service they gave to the company.
The Ministry and NRZ are doing their best to assist and console the bereaved families during these difficult times.
May their souls rest in eternal peace.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Minister Mhona Mourns Three Railway Men Killed In Train Accident

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has released the names of three crew members who were killed in a train accident on Monday night.
The train, which was travelling to Beira port in Mozambique, “‘suffered a brake failure leading to a runaway which culminated in the train failing to negotiate a sharp curve, thereby falling into the gorge”, trapping the three men.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/national-railways-of-zimbabwe-identifies-three-crew-members-killed-in-train-crash/">State media</a>, NRZ spokesperson Andrew Kunambura identified the trio as Engineman Tasunungurwa Mapuranga, Pride Femerepi a security escort, and Enock Tawabarira.
The accident occurred between Mutare and Machipanda at around 9 PM.
The train was pulling 14 wagons laden with nine (9) export chrome concentrates and five (5) granite blocks. The NRZ said:
<blockquote>
The NRZ board, management and staff would like to express sincere condolences to the families of the hardworking, dedicated crew members who shall always be remembered by the Railways family.
Our thoughts are with their families and we pray for God to comfort and strengthen them in these very difficult times.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three NRZ Crew Members Killed In Train Crash Named

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) train which was on its way to Beira Port in Mozambique derailed yesterday evening.
In a statement, the NRZ said the train had a runaway between Mutare and Machipanda. The NRZ said:
<blockquote>
The NRZ would like to inform the nation of a train accident which happened on the evening of Monday, 19 February 2024. The train, which was on its way to the Beira Port, had a runaway and derailed between Mutare and Machipanda. More details to follow.
</blockquote>
A runaway train is a type of railroad incident in which unattended rolling stock is accidentally allowed to roll onto the main line, a moving train loses enough braking power to be unable to stop in safety, or a train operates at unsafe speeds due to loss of operator control.
Port Beira serves as a gateway by road and, rail and pipeline to Zimbabwe, and road and rail to Botswana, Zambia, DR Congo, and Malawi.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NRZ Train Derails Between Mutare And Machipanda

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has urged the Government regulate the trade in scrap metal to curb vandalism of the railway network.
The parastatal says it has spent nearly US$1 million replacing equipment and rail components vandalised by illegal gold miners or stolen by copper cable thieves.
NRZ public affairs and stakeholder relations manager Andrew Kunambura told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/vandals-cost-nrz-us1m">The Sunday Mail</a> that thieves are also targetting ballast along railway lines.
Ballast is a layer of crushed stone or gravel that is placed on top of the subgrade and under the railroad ties.
It provides support for the ties and tracks, and it also helps to drain water away from the tracks. Said Kunambura:
<blockquote>
Illegal gold miners are digging holes and tunnels that cut across the railway lines.
The effect of such destruction is an increased derailments and accidents.
The NRZ is also experiencing theft of ballast along the railway network.
Such ballast is used to construct houses and some are taken with the belief of extracting gold ore from it.
This is particularly frequent on the Harare-Bindura and Shamva line, and the Kadoma-Eiffel Flats line.
The effect of such theft results in potential derailments and train accidents.
Due to the proliferation of scrap dealing, we have witnessed a rise in the theft of scrap in our yards throughout the system.
To ameliorate the dire situation, there is a need for scrap dealers to be regulated so that they apply due diligence when procuring such scrap.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said between January and December last year, NRZ dealt with 52 cases of copper theft and 49 related to the destruction of rail properties.
Between January and October, the NRZ handled 27 cases of theft and vandalism.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NRZ Pleads For The Regulation Of Scrap Metal Dealers

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) says it has spent nearly US$1 million replacing vandalised and stolen equipment and rail components, with illegal gold miners and copper cable thieves the main culprits.
NRZ public affairs and stakeholder relations manager Andrew Kunambura <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/vandals-cost-nrz-us1m">was quoted as saying</a>:
<blockquote>
The impact of the destruction of NRZ infrastructure has been costly in terms of financial outlays for replacing the stolen and vandalised materials and equipment.
It is estimated that the organisation has spent more than US$1 million to replace the material or equipment that has been vandalised or stolen.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said the vandalism and theft of the company’s infrastructure have disturbed communication and the smooth movement of trains. He said:
<blockquote>
Just like other utilities, NRZ has become a victim of criminality, which ranges from general theft of copper cables, theft of rail components, and wanton destruction of rail setups or formations, particularly the removal of ballast and unwarranted digging near and across the railway line by illegal miners.
The impact of such theft has culminated in train communication challenges and hindered the smooth movement of trains across the whole system.
</blockquote>
Most of the affected lines were Harare-Bindura-Shamva; Kadoma-Eiffel Flats; Gweru-Kwekwe; Gweru-Shangani; Somabhula-Zvishavane; and Bulawayo-Gwanda.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Thieves And Vandals Cost NRZ US$1 Million

Retired National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) workers are reportedly receiving a monthly pension payout equivalent to around US$3 per month.
One pensioner who spoke to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/nrz-pensioners-earning-us3-monthly-pay-outs/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> on Wednesday on condition of anonymity claimed the National Railways of Zimbabwe Contributory Pension Fund (NRZCPF) is paying out ZWL$3 000 per month. Said the pensioner:
<blockquote>
Early this year the pension payouts were increased from around ZWL$2 000 to ZWL$3 000 which is not even enough to purchase more than US$3.
The worst part is that one needs ZWL$1 000 to travel to the bank if you are based in urban centres and even much more for those residing in rural areas.
This added to high bank charges makes it senseless to even think of withdrawing the money.
What boggles the mind is that employees working for these pension funds are sitting pretty, enjoying hefty packages from our sweat.
</blockquote>
The pensioner said NRZCPF took advantage of Statutory Instrument 33 of 2016 which introduced the Zimbabwe dollar as the sole currency. He said:
<blockquote>
So since then, a pensioner who was earning US$400 was automatically paid ZWL$400 and despite the changes which took place thereafter we did not factor in.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment on the matter, NRZCPF board chairperson, Takunda Madanha said:
<blockquote>
I will not comment on the figures being paid out, but we know that the payouts are too little for now.
Pensioners also need to appreciate that we are basing the payouts on a defined pension contribution scheme under which what is paid for is a result of what one invested.
There are three factors that contribute to this; your last pensionable salary, the duration of your service and the savings you made.
</blockquote>
He said pensioners should understand that contributions made in the GNU era were much higher which explains the differences in current payouts. He added:
<blockquote>
We are however trying to improve the situation by collecting rentals from our properties but again we are dogged by rising void spaces and low rentals which have high defaults.
</blockquote>
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NRZ Pensioners Earning US$3 Monthly Payouts | Report

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has defended the appointment of Retired Colonel <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tshinga_Dube">Tshinga Dube</a> (81) to the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) board.
Political analyst, Rashweat Mukundu, among other commentators, said the appointment was testimony that the country’s leadership does not understand what is required to revive the “struggling” parastatal.
However, addressing journalists at a traffic safety indaba in Harare on Thursday, Mhona said Dube was ideal for the post following his long experience in corporate affairs.
Mhona added that those criticising Dube’s appointment were failing to consider the positives that he is set to bring into the NRZ boardroom. He said:
<blockquote>
It is surprising that some people from outside the country are concerned with his appointment while overlooking what he is bringing to the organisation.
Cde Dube served as a board member at CMED and he will come with great expertise.
He is fit and has experience.
</blockquote>
Dube, who holds an MSc in Engineering, will serve for three years on the board with his term set to end on December 6, 2025.
He served as the General Manager of the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (Private) Limited from October 1993 to August 2015.
Dube is a top ZANU PF official and a former Member of Parliament for Makokoba in Bulawayo. | <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/minister-mhona-defends-tshinga-dube-81-appointment-into-nrz-board/">ZimLive</a>

Minister Mhona Defends Tshinga Dube's Appointment To The NRZ Board

A man suspected to have been drunk was run over by a train in Mount Hampden recently while he was lying on the railway line.
This incident was revealed on Friday by the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) through its Twitter page. It said:
<blockquote>
A man was killed by a train in Mt Hampden recently while sleeping on the track. It is suspected he was drunk.
NRZ encourages people to exercise extreme caution on railway tracks as such accidents seem to be on the increase.
</blockquote>
The NRZ said the train driver sounded the locomotive whistle and applied emergency brakes but the man could not be saved.
Some people who commented believe that the man may have been murdered elsewhere and then his body dumped on the railway tracks so that it will appear as if he was sleeping.
In June this year, an unidentified man died after he was hit by a train near Mbokodo Abattoir in Bulawayo as he was walking on the railway line.
In October 2021, another unidentified man threw himself in front of a moving train and was crushed to death near Cold Comfort in Harare.

"Drunk" Man Crushed By Train While Sleeping On Railway Tracks

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) artisan was seriously injured in the head after a piece of timber struck him and became lodged in his forehead.
The incident occurred at the NRZ mechanical workshops in Raylton on Wednesday morning.
NRZ Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Andrew Kunambura, confirmed the incident to CITE. He said:
<blockquote>
We can confirm a workplace injury involving a Senior Wood Machinist which occurred on Wednesday 7 December 2022.
This happened when he was planking a piece of timber that flew back at him from the powerful circular saw machine he was using.
This resulted in a splinter hitting him on the forehead and injuring him. He was preparing it for a student undergoing a trade test.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said the Senior Wood Machinist was admitted at Mpilo Central Hospital where he was receiving treatment and his condition was stable.
CITE reported sources as saying the artisan’s forehead was stitched after the piece of wood was removed.

NRZ Artisan Injured In Freak Accident... Piece Of Timber Lodges In His Forehead

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has reversed its decision to suspend urban commuter train service less than 24 hours after announcing the move.
On Saturday, 26 November, NRZ public affairs and stakeholder relations manager Andrew Kunambura said the service would be suspended from Monday, 28 November.
But in a statement on Sunday, 27 November, Kunambura said he was withdrawing the previous statement. He said:
<blockquote>
NRZ hereby withdraws the press statement issued this Saturday 26 November 2022 on the [suspension of commuter train service].
The commuting public will be updated if there are any new developments.
Any inconvenience caused to our valued customers and other stakeholders is sincerely regretted.
</blockquote>
The NRZ commuter trains ply various routes in Harare and Bulawayo and were introduced last year through a partnership between the NRZ and the Zimbabwe Passenger Company (ZUPCO).
The introduction of commuter trains was aimed at lessening congestion and easing the transport challenges that urban commuters were facing.
Yesterday, Kunambura said the suspension of the service was necessitated by ZUPCO’s failure to pay overdue fees. He said:
<blockquote>
The suspension was occasioned by an unsustainable operating environment arising from huge debts owed to NRZ by ZUPCO.
NRZ was therefore left with no option but to suspend commuter trains from 28 November due to capacity challenges.
Normal services will resume once ZUPCO fulfills its obligations as set in the agreement.
Any inconvenience caused to our valued customers is sincerely regretted.
</blockquote>
NRZ’s U-turn will come as a huge relief to commuters as trains provide a cheaper mode of transport compared to kombis.

NRZ Reverses Decision To Suspend Commuter Trains

The government said the recapitalisation of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is key to the country’s economic growth.
The Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Responsible for Monitoring, Implementation of Government Programmes, Joram Gumbo, said the resuscitation of NRZ will also prevent damage to the road infrastructure as more goods would be transported by rail.
Speaking during a tour of the NRZ workshops on Thursday, Gumbo also said ZWL$2 billion had been pledged to fund the refurbishing of NRZ infrastructure. Said Gumbo:
<blockquote>
NRZ is a vital link to economic development, more so for a land-locked country like ours. It is therefore important to ensure the company is recapitalised.
The government continues to support your efforts to re-equip and recapitalize the organization in order to give you a competitive advantage.
In this regard, ZWL$2 billion has been pledged to fund the refurbishment and reestablishment of NRZ infrastructure.
I have been informed that the target for this year is to refurbish four main lines, five shunting locomotives and 940 wagons.
I urge you to apply yourselves fully to this project given the fact that for the entity to operate optimally… 170 coaches are required.
</blockquote>
Gumbo said the increase in vehicular traffic on the country’s roads has brought with it many challenges. He said:
<blockquote>
The volume of trucks on our roads has increased exponentially over the years and has brought with it many challenges the rapid increase in road freight is a cause for concern because of the damage on our roads. 
Congestion and the rise in accidents, these problems are partly due to the goods that are being transported by roads instead of rail. 
It is our hope that upon completion your project should assist in relieving pressure on our road network.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://cite.org.zw/resuscitate-nrz-to-save-roads-minister/">CITE</a>

Resuscitate NRZ To Save Roads - Minister Gumbo

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has temporarily suspended the urban commuter train service “due to capacity challenges”.
In a statement, NRZ Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager Andrew Kunambura said the suspension is with effect from 28 November 2022. He said:
<blockquote>
The suspension was occasioned by an unsustainable operating environment arising from huge debts owed to NRZ by ZUPCO.
NRZ was therefore left with no option but to suspend commuter trains from 28 November due to capacity challenges.
Normal services will resume once ZUPCO fulfills its obligations as set in the agreement.
</blockquote>
The urban commuter train service was launched in partnership with ZUPCO last year to ease congestion in Bulawayo and Harare at the height of the coronavirus crisis. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/nrz-suspends-urban-commuter-train-service/">CITE</a>

NRZ Suspends Urban Commuter Train Service

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) says it will auction its disused wagons and other obsolete metals which have become expensive to repair.
The auctions will be conducted by Desired Liaison Auctioneers at NRZ headquarters in Bulawayo as well as in Harare this week.
Newly appointed spokesperson, Andrew Kunambura, told State media that the proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish operating wagons and procurement of new ones. Said Kunambura:
<blockquote>
NRZ is a heavy user of metal, which is used in the manufacture of wagons and their respective components.
Some of these wagons were acquired many years ago and are obsolete. Once this happens, the wagons are scrapped and from time to time the NRZ sells this scrap metal.
However, this is the first time NRZ is disposing of its scrap metal through the public auction system.
Previously, the NRZ disposed of its scrap metal through the tender process.
It’s also the most transparent way of asset disposal as all bids are called out to all participants and award is done in full view of everyone.
Proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish wagons in use and procurement of new wagons.
Viewing will be done at least a day before the auction and since wagons are scattered along the railway line in various places within the country, viewing will be for just a sample, in Harare and Bulawayo.
Wagons will be sold using wagon number, estimated tonnage and location. Only ungraded scrap will be disposed of, which means it excludes wheels and axles as the organisation is intending to use the graded scrap for its induction furnace.
</blockquote>

NRZ To Auction Disused Wagons, Scrap Metal

National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) board chairperson Martin Dinha has implored the government to subsidise the urban commuter train service to enable the parastatal to continue serving members of the public.
Dinha said this in a speech read on his behalf during the launch of the third edition of the NRZ National Safety Week, which is also commemorated by Southern Africa Railway Association members.
The theme for the commemorations this year was “Be Vigilant around Tracks, Trains are fast but too slow to stop”. Said Dinha:
<blockquote>
Our passenger service, particularly in the commuter trains such as the ones that run in Luveve, Cowdry Park, are never profit-oriented world over but community and social-based. We are basically serving the community.
In conjunction with ZUPCO, we request the government to provide a subsidy for commuter train services which we offer in urban areas.
… We continue to rely on government support to ensure we achieve the objective of turning around the fortunes of this great entity.
As we go into the twilight zone of the turnaround phase, we have been geared for this transformation so that we bring NRZ to its rightful position in terms of influencing our economy.
</blockquote>
Dinha expressed concern over the increase in unsafe activities around the railway tracks which include railroad-level crossing accidents, suicides on the tracks, stone throwing, vandalism, illegal gold panning and mining.
He appealed to line Ministries and other government departments to assist the NRZ in protecting the national infrastructure.
The NRZ first introduced commuter trains (commonly known as Freedom Trains) in Harare and Bulawayo in 2001.
The company suspended the service in 2020 following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic but reintroduced it in 2021 in partnership with the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO). | <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2022/10/13/government-urged-to-subsidise-the-urban-commuter-train-service/">New Ziana</a>

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