Traxtion, one of Africa’s largest private freight rail operators, has expanded its presence into Angola following the signing of a new contract with a concessionaire on the Lobito Rail Corridor. This marks a significant step for the company, which will now have locomotives and personnel based in the country.
CEO James Holley highlighted that while Traxtion has previously supplied parts to Angola’s national rail operator, this agreement represents a direct operational presence. The contract involves leasing U20C locomotives to Lobito Atlantic Railway, the current concessionaire on the Lobito line, for the transportation of copper and other freight to the Angola-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border.
Holley explained that while larger locomotives handle high-speed freight transport, they are not suited for operations at the Port of Lobito, where 30-wagon trains must be split for unloading. To address this challenge, Traxtion is supplying two G18U shunting locomotives, enabling faster turnaround times for mainline locomotives. These shunters will be maintained by Traxtion, and the company will also provide conversion training for local operators.
The first locomotive is set to arrive in Angola shortly, with the second expected by mid-2025 following modifications at the Rosslyn Rail Hub in Pretoria.
Holley emphasised that this contract aligns with Traxtion’s broader vision of transforming freight transport across Africa. “We customise solutions to meet the challenges of African rail projects. Having successfully delivered for this client in the DRC, we are now expanding our partnership into Angola,” he said.
While Angola is now the ninth African country where Traxtion operates, Holley also highlighted the company’s focus on South Africa, particularly the potential opportunities arising from third-party access to the national rail network. “Our fleet is fully deployed, and while we see promising opportunities elsewhere, our priority is now on launching Traxtion trains on South Africa’s rail system. There is significant unserved freight, and we are committed to investing in the country’s rail future,” he added.
Share on:
