The long-planned Trans-Kalahari Railway Project has taken a significant step forward with the appointment of a consultant to assess its feasibility, paving the way for construction expected to begin in 2027.
At a recent Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) meeting in the resort city of Kasane, attended by Botswana’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister Noah Salakae and Namibia’s Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi welcomed progress on the project.
The JMC confirmed that Canadian Pacific Consulting Services (CPCS) Transcom UK Limited, working alongside Zutari (Pty) Ltd and Bowmans Namibia, has been formally engaged to conduct a feasibility study.
The firm began work in April 2025 and has already completed an inception report.
The study is scheduled for completion within 12 months, determining the viability of the rail link, which aims to enhance regional trade and connectivity.
During a meeting on 15 May between Botswana President Duma Boko and Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the leaders reaffirmed the strategic importance of the railway and prioritised it on their bilateral agenda.
The Trans-Kalahari Railway, initially proposed to strengthen logistics and trade routes between Namibia and Botswana, is expected to facilitate cross-border commerce, linking key transport corridors in southern Africa.
JN/APA