By Draxon Maloya
The reopening of the Marka Border Railway Station and the arrival of 1.2 million liters of petroleum products from Beira, Mozambique marks a significant milestone for Malawi.
After being inactive for 42 years, the railway line is now operational again, offering the shortest and most cost-effective route for fuel importation compared to the longer routes from Nacala and Dar es Salaam.
Governance and Human Rights Advocate, Undule Mwakasungula said the development is expected to reduce transportation costs and ease the financial burden on ordinary Malawians.
“This signifies a crucial advancement in Malawi’s trade and transportation sectors. The railway line will not only facilitate fuel transport but also carry other goods, thereby enhancing the country’s trade links, particularly with neighboring Mozambique. This is a substantial win for our economy and positions Malawi as a stronger player in regional trade,” said Mwakasungula.
He then hailed President Lazarus Chakwera’s leadership in realizing this project which he said underscores the importance of focusing on practical, long-term solutions that benefit the nation.
The reopening of the railway is a clear example of how infrastructure improvements can have a direct, positive impact on our economy and the lives of our people essentially for all Malawians—whether supporters of the government, opposition, or critics—to recognize the value of such developments.
“This is not about politics; it is about national progress. Development projects like these should be acknowledged and supported by everyone, as they contribute to moving the country forward,” he said.
In a recent interview, the Spokesperson in the office of the transport minister, Kelvin Sato said the achievement highlights the potential benefits of investing in neglected areas like transport infrastructure adding that if properly managed such sectors can yield significant returns.
“As we look ahead, it is evident that focusing on these kinds of projects can help Malawi grow stronger and improve the quality of life for its people,” said Sato.
The ministers spokesperson added that the reopening of this railway line is a moment of pride for Malawi, worthy all taking a moment to appreciate how the nation has come this far.
Meanwhile, President Lazarus Chakwera, has received the inaugural train carrying fuel, operating between Beira (Mozambique) and Marka, Nsanje (Malawi) after 41 years of the railway line inactivity.
The train has brought into the country 1.2 million litres of fuel in its 24 wagons, expected to be ferried to Blantyre by road following the rehabilitation of the railway line from both ends, Mozambique and Malawi.
The Mozambican government, completed rehabilitation of its side with Malawi still working on finishing its 72-kilometre stretch between Marka and Bangula before further fully reviving the Marka-Limbe railway line.
