Tanzania’s High-Speed Electric Trains Now Running
TRC’s new electric trains reach 160 km/h as Tanzania modernizes rail transport under the SGR project.
Tanzania’s New High-Speed Electric Trains Begin Operations
DODOMA, March 23, 2025 – The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has officially launched operations of its newly acquired fleet of high-speed electric locomotives, a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing rail transport transformation.
TRC Director General Masanja Kadogosa announced the development during a press briefing detailing the agency’s progress under the Sixth Phase Government. He confirmed that 17 electric locomotives, each capable of reaching speeds up to 160 km/h, have been delivered and are already in active service as of December 2024.
The locomotives were procured under a contract signed with South Korean manufacturer Hyundai Rotem on July 14, 2021. In addition to the locomotives, TRC has also received 10 Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) passenger train sets from Hyundai Rotem. These have successfully completed testing and are set to enhance the passenger rail experience.
Furthermore, TRC is bolstering its freight capabilities with a separate agreement signed with China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) for the supply of 1,430 freight wagons. By December 2024, 264 of these wagons had arrived and were undergoing trial runs.
In terms of passenger service improvements, 71 coaches have already been delivered from manufacturers in South Korea and Germany, with another 18 coaches scheduled to arrive later this year.
Beyond new rolling stock, TRC is also investing in the rehabilitation of the older Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) system. This includes the restoration of the Dar es Salaam–Isaka and Kaliua–Mpanda lines. Construction of a new railway bridge between Godegode and Gulwe is also underway, aiming to further strengthen the nation’s railway infrastructure.
These developments mark a significant step forward in Tanzania’s ambition to modernize its transportation sector, with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) playing a pivotal role in reducing transit times, boosting cargo efficiency, and fostering economic integration.
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