Field report : an assessment of transport infrastructure relative to Zambian coastal linkage

This study assesses Zambia"s transport system, emphasizing import/export traffic. The author first examines rail transport - including the Zambian, TAZARA (Tanzania-Zambia), Malawi, Mozambique, Rhodesian, South African, and Benguela Railways - and Zambia road haulage. Next, he assesses the major road routes providing access to seaports and the conditions of port facilities at Dar es Salaam, Nacala, Beira, Maputo, and East London. In light of this information and given the critical nature of the 1980 shortage of maize in Zambia, the author provides a detailed forecast of domestic maize supply, determines when imports will be needed, and indicates the best routes for transporting emergency maize supplies from the United States and the Republic of South Africa. Finally, the author explores the impact of a political settlement in neighboring Zimbabwe, noting the potential for political instability, the growing dissatisfaction with dependence on Tanzania, and Zambia"s rapprochement with Mozambique. The author concludes that the poor state of transport in Zambia is due to misuse and poor maintenance of equipment; poor management, both public and private; and inadequate as well as unsafe cargo storage and handling. Projections of port usage are included. To improve transportation between Zambia and foreign seaports, the author recommends upgrading existing infrastructure, especially the human aspects, rather than making extensive investments in new rail or road lines. Toward this end, it is recommended that A.I.D. assist the Zambian Government in targeting problems and identifying resources for their resolution, in designing and obtaining funding for projects, and in communicating with domestic and foreign agencies interested in transport issues. Appended are a 12-item bibliography (1977-79); descriptions of the transport activities of eight other donors; inspection, bridge, and port status reports; and summaries of various rail routes between Zambia and Mozambique.