TransNamib needs to double its locomotives

ELLANIE SMIT WINDHOEKTransNamib will need to double the number of locomotives it has at the moment to meet its integrated strategic business plan (ISBP) goal of moving 3.1 million tonnes per year by 2023.It currently has 43 locomotives and will need 86 locomotives by 2023.This is according to the CEO of TransNamib, Johnny Smith, who made a presentation at a stakeholder engagement that followed the company’s annual general meeting on 30 March.Smith said the company is strategically positioned to carry bulk cargo, as one full train is equivalent to 30 trucks on the road.He further described TransNamib’s strategy in terms of focusing on station-to-station service as active and continuous engagement with clients. Block trainsSmith also gave an overview of the company’s block trains strategy.“This essentially means there is a total of two locomotives and at least 20 wagons carrying a certain product. The current block trains focus on fuel, copper, concentrate, coal, manganese and acid.“The benefits of block trains are that there is only one stop to refuel and it increases the efficiency of the operations.”Smith said the company’s focus on improving corporate governance and hosting its first AGM in six years in 2020 has gone a long way in improving the company’s public perception. Good booksHe said one of the major milestones was receiving an unqualified audit in the 2018/2019 financial year - the first time in almost a decade.“The growth in TransNamib’s revenue, freight volumes and property portfolio are evidence that the company is indeed progressing forward.”According to TransNamib, its key customers have expressed keen interest in moving bulk volumes through rail, citing the benefits of moving the majority of freight in this manner, which would include long-term financial sustainability for the rail operator and the industry, generating income to fund new projects and reviving other routes as well as boosting infrastructure and winning local and international investors’ confidence.

TransNamib needs to double its locomotives

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-28

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TransNamib needs to double its locomotives

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-28

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