India-based RITES has delivered the first unit to Mozambique under a 10-locomotives contract funded by the African Development Bank. The first delivery from RITES, a subsidiary of Indian Railways, is a significant step in a $37,7 million agreement with Ports and Railways Mozambique (CFM).
Critical Role in Mozambique’s Railway Modernization
The agreement includes a total of ten diesel-electric locomotives, with production taking place at RITES’ facility in Banaras (Uttar Pradesh), India. The locomotives are used in Mozambique. Specially designed for 1067 mm sized rails and is built to withstand harsh operating conditions.
In April, the Mozambican government, Doubling the national rail network by 2030 announced plans. This major expansion includes purchasing new locomotives and wagons to improve freight handling capacity. An order for 300 freight wagons has already been placed with an unnamed Indian manufacturer. Mozambique also plans to purchase 450 wagons and 15 additional locomotives. In this context, these locomotives delivered by RITES will play a critical role in Mozambique’s railway modernization.
India's Strategic Footprint in Africa
India sees this agreement as a strategic opportunity to expand its presence in Africa’s transportation sector. Indian suppliers will provide technical support cost effective solutions RITES expects this successful implementation in Mozambique to serve as a model for future agreements with other Southern and East African countries. The remaining locomotives will be delivered in phases until the end of 2025.
The upgraded locomotive fleet is expected to increase logistics efficiency and support the integration of regional transport corridors. This partnership opens up new prospects for both African railway operators and Indian manufacturers.
