Infrastructure is frequently regarded as the foundation of sustainable development, regional integration, and economic progress in the twenty-first century, and rail networks have become a part of this essential infrastructure.
- Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 African countries with the most train tracks.
- This list is courtesy of Global Firepower.
- South Africa ranks number 1 on the list.
Huge railway coverage is now a strategic need rather than a luxury for African nations looking to realize their full potential.
A nation’s growth trajectory can be drastically altered by the substantial economic, social, and environmental advantages that come with having vast railway networks.
Railways are an economical and effective means to move cargo across great distances.
By enabling the transportation of manufactured products, minerals, agricultural produce, and industrial commodities from rural to urban areas and export hubs, railways help close the logistical gap on a continent where many parts are still landlocked or cut off from seaports.
For example, a nation with extensive rail coverage might link its ports with inland mining locations, drawing in foreign capital and increasing export revenue.
Furthermore, having a large railway network guarantees that commodities may travel across borders swiftly and reasonably as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gets traction.
Countries that have made investments in cross-border railway lines, like as Tanzania and Zambia, are prime to see improved trade flows and less reliance on expensive road freight.
With Africa’s urban population quickly increasing, cities are under unprecedented strain on their transportation infrastructure.
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A comprehensive railway system, particularly when combined with urban transportation, may dramatically decrease traffic congestion, shorten travel times, and increase productivity.
Commuter train services may connect suburbs to city cores, improving city life and lowering automobile congestion.
Railway stations in rural locations serve as hubs for isolated communities, bringing people closer to services, opportunities, and economic engagement.
Railway coverage is crucial for governments attempting to eliminate regional inequality since it ensures that no portion of the country falls behind.
With that said, here are the top 10 African countries with the largest total railway coverage as per data from Global Firepower.
Top 10 African countries with the largest rail networks
| Rank | Country | Total railway (train) coverage by country | Global rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | South Africa | 20,986km | 12th |
| 2. | Sudan | 7,251km | 30th |
| 3. | Egypt | 5,085km | 37th |
| 4. | Mozambique | 4,787km | 40th |
| 5. | Tanzania | 4,097km | 44th |
| 6. | Algeria | 4,020km | 46th |
| 7. | Democratic Republic of Congo | 4,007km | 47th |
| 8. | Kenya | 3,819km | 50th |
| 9. | Nigeria | 3,798km | 51st |
| 10. | Zimbabwe | 3,427km | 56th |
