The Chinese and Zambian governments have launched an exhibition to mark 40 years since the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway, commonly known as TAZARA.
The exhibition showcases the construction process of the railway line and its significance in the landlocked country of Zambia.
It attracted several dignitaries including Zambia’s First President Kenneth Kaunda and Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Yang Youming.
Kaunda praised the relationship between China and Africa as beneficial to the continent.
“This says a lot about the cooperation that existed and continues to exist between China and Africa. There have been growing benefits from China’s growth,” he said.
Yang on his part praised the railway, saying it was a show of friendship between China and Africa.
“Tazara is a great railway of friendship. Kenneth Kaunda has been an excellent participant and awareness of this friendship between China nad Zambia,” he said.
Tanzania, Zambia and China have now agreed to improve the railway line which has been facing operational challenges.
Built in the 1970’s and financed by China, the railway line covers over 1,000 kilometers from the Zambian town of Kapiri Mposhi to Tanzania’s Dar-es-Salaam.
It has also played a key role in the economic development of Southern African countries.
