New railway to link South Africa and Swaziland

Date: 18/1/2012

A new train line is to be built between South Africa and Swaziland that it is hoped will bring about benefits for both businesses and consumers.

The 146-kilometre stretch - which will run from Lothair in Mpumalanga, South Africa to Sidvokodvo, Swaziland - will make it easier for Swazi traders to do business, IPS reports.

In turn, this could benefit citizens as the potentially cheaper transport will lower the cost of goods.

Vice-Chair of the Federation of the Swaziland Business Community Hezekiel Mabuza said heavy traffic "will deplete our roads and that's why we're excited about this project because we hope that Salgaocar will also seize the opportunity to use the railway."

The railway will cost £2 billion (£1.3 billion) to construct, with South Africa contributing $1.5 billion of the cost and Swaziland paying the rest.

According to the Rail Road Association of South Africa, the country must continue to develop its transportation network to ensure it remains competitive while improving safety and travel opportunities for citizens.

Posted by Nick Anderson