Uganda Railways begins transporting cement for Hima Cement

Uganda Railways Corporation has initiated the transportation of cement for Hima Cement Limited from Tororo to Namanve. The first shipment consists of 15 railway wagons carrying 540 tonnes of cement. This marks the beginning of a domestic freight arrangement between the two companies. The move is expected to significantly reduce the number of heavy-duty trucks on the roads.

At full capacity, Uganda Railways Corporation plans to transport up to 30,000 tonnes of cement monthly. According to the corporation, transporting this volume by road would require 1,000 truck trips every month. By using rail, the service aims to eliminate approximately 1,000 truck trips from Uganda's roads monthly. This reduction is anticipated to decrease traffic congestion, particularly along busy highways used by heavy commercial vehicles.

The shift to rail transport is also expected to reduce road damage caused by heavy trucks and lower the risks of cargo theft, damage, and accidents during transportation. Scheduled railway services will provide Hima Cement with more predictable delivery times for bulk cargo between its Tororo facility and Namanve. This arrangement is part of Uganda Railways Corporation's efforts to expand domestic freight operations.

The corporation is encouraging manufacturers to use rail transport for moving large volumes of goods. By engaging other manufacturers, Uganda Railways Corporation aims to increase freight volumes and support the government's efforts to reduce pressure on the road network. The goal is to improve cargo transportation within Uganda while reducing the reliance on road transport.

Uganda Railways Corporation estimates that transporting the initial consignment by road would require 18 heavy-duty trucks, each carrying 30 tonnes. The corporation believes that the rail transport service will offer a more efficient and reliable option for bulk cargo transportation. This development is part of the corporation's strategy to promote the use of rail for domestic freight.

The arrangement between Uganda Railways Corporation and Hima Cement Limited is expected to have a positive impact on the country's transportation sector. By reducing the number of trucks on the roads, the service aims to minimize the risks associated with road transport. The corporation is optimistic that this partnership will set a precedent for other manufacturers to consider rail transport for their bulk cargo needs.

Uganda Railways Corporation's efforts to expand domestic freight operations are aligned with the government's goals to improve cargo transportation and reduce pressure on the road network. The corporation's engagement with other manufacturers is expected to lead to increased freight volumes and a more efficient transportation system. The service is anticipated to benefit both the economy and the environment by reducing congestion and promoting a more sustainable mode of transport.

Key points

• The service aims to eliminate approximately 1,000 truck trips from Uganda's roads monthly.
• The shift to rail transport is expected to reduce road damage and lower the risks of cargo theft, damage, and accidents.
• The arrangement is part of Uganda Railways Corporation's efforts to expand domestic freight operations and encourage manufacturers to use rail transport.