Uganda plans to connect its new railway line with a railway under development in Tanzania, creating a direct export corridor to the Port of Dar es Salaam, according to Reuters.
The proposed Standard Gauge Railway will run from Uganda’s southern border through key interior regions, eventually reaching Mpondwe near the Democratic Republic of the Congo border. The connection is expected to provide Ugandan exporters, particularly in the minerals and agricultural sectors, with a shorter, more cost‑efficient route to international markets, reducing reliance on the Kenya corridor.
The project forms part of Uganda’s broader strategy to lower transport costs, enhance export competitiveness, and diversify access to seaports. The African Development Bank is currently reviewing a funding request to support early preparatory work on the Tanzania link.
CNBC Africa highlighted that the rail connection could eventually integrate with regional networks, boosting trade flows across East Africa and supporting long-term economic growth through improved infrastructure and connectivity.
