Lusaka – Chinese Premier Li Qiang has concluded a landmark visit to Zambia, highlighted by the official launch of the revitalisation of the Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) line, a signature infrastructure project symbolising decades of friendship among Zambia, Tanzania, and China.
Premier Li joined President Hakainde Hichilema and Tanzania’s Vice President Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi in Lusaka, where the trio unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the start of rehabilitation works on the 1,860-kilometre railway.
President Hichilema described the project as a renewal of the historic partnership first forged during the era of President Kenneth Kaunda and Chairman Mao Zedong.
He said the modernisation of TAZARA would position Zambia as a regional transport and logistics hub, boosting trade, investment, and job creation.
“TAZARA is a symbol of the enduring partnership between our three nations. It was important then and remains even more important today,” President Hichilema said, adding that the project will benefit communities along the rail route from Kapiri Mposhi to Dar es Salaam.
Premier Li reaffirmed China’s commitment to the cooperation, calling TAZARA a hallmark of China–Africa relations. He pledged Beijing’s support to ensure the revitalised line becomes a model of high-quality infrastructure development and a driver of economic growth.
“China stands ready to work with Zambia and Tanzania to strengthen connectivity and carry forward the TAZARA spirit,” Premier Li said.
Tanzania’s Vice President Nchimbi noted that the upgrade marks a renewal of a “sacred commitment,” saying a modern TAZARA would enhance regional trade corridors and complement Tanzania’s ongoing port modernisation.
The revitalisation project is expected to increase freight capacity from 400,000 to 1.2 million metric tons annually and create thousands of jobs in both Zambia and Tanzania. Premier Li’s visit also included bilateral talks focused on expanding cooperation in energy, mining, tourism, agriculture, technology, and logistics.
President Hichilema said Zambia remains committed to the Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership with China and to the One China Policy, emphasising that collaboration with Beijing will continue to unlock new economic opportunities.
