Southern Africa regional transport development (Zambia Railways (ZR)) project

The method used by the evaluator in carrying out research for the report was on-site observation of workshop and stores operations, analysis of ZR records, and interviews/discussions with key management and workshop personnel. Although ZR appeared to possess the facilities and labor capable of rehabilitating the planned two locomotives monthly, to date the ZR shops in Kabwe have only produced five locomotives. This is only one locomotive a month or half of the planned production. This is due in part to an oversight or lack of follow-up by ZR management regarding much needed small materials and hand tools for everyday use. Locomotives rehabilitated to date have performed reliably, indicating that the ZR rehabilitation operation is sound. However, crucial parts supplied by Arbaco and Myron Snyder were found to be used or defective. The most important recommendations are to install a computerized materials control system in the workshop, acquire certain small tools, purchase the small-value but critically needed spares, institute additional training, re-evaluate manpower utilization and eliminate the necessity of overtime. The key lesson learned in this evaluation is not to assume all the various aspects of a program will fall in place after a program is planned. All points and activities in the program must be followed up and re-evaluated constantly by a management program coordinator at Zambia Railways. (Author abstract, modified)