The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has dismissed a report claiming that it has launched a skilled worker programme for students without Ordinary Level qualifications.
On Monday, State media quoted NRZ instructor Jatiwa Mudiwa, who aid that the programme provides students with valuable life skills through automotive and other technical courses, even for those lacking O’ Level qualifications in English, Mathematics, or Science.
According to the report, Mudiwa made these remarks during a career expo held at Thembiso Primary School in Bulawayo last Friday.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, March 6, NRZ’s Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Andrew Kunambura, clarified that the organisation does not offer such courses.
Kunambura further explained that, following the publication of the story, NRZ had been inundated with inquiries from the public about the alleged programme. He added:
<blockquote>
NRZ wishes to advise that it does not offer such a programme and that entry requirements for all programmes offered at our Technical College are principally Five Passes at Ordinary Level, inclusive of Mathematics and English Language.
Moreover, advertisements are issued in the public press whenever there is an intake and these adverts specify clearly all the requirements for each programme.
We greatly appreciate the interest by members of the public to enroll at our esteemed institution which churns out highly skilled graduates that easily integrate into both the formal and informal sectors on successful completion of their courses.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is saying that they did not start a program for students without O' Levels. They say the program is not real, even though an instructor mentioned it at a career expo. NRZ's requirements are actually 5 passes at O' Level, including Math and English. They appreciate the interest, but want to make it clear that the false program does not exist. If anyone wants to join NRZ's Technical College, they need to meet the real entry requirements.

NRZ Denies Launching Skilled Worker Programme For Students Without O' Levels

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) technical college has started a skilled worker programme for students without Ordinary Level qualifications.
This programme offers them valuable life skills by offering automotive and other technical courses, even if they don’t have O’ Level English, Mathematics, or Science.
NRZ instructor Jatiwa Mudiwa, speaking at a career expo held at Thembiso Primary School in Bulawayo on Friday, said the programme is meant to bridge the gap in the education system by giving opportunities to students considered less deserving. <a href="https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/nrz-launches-skilled-worker-programme-for-students-without-o-levels/">Said Mudiwa</a>:
<blockquote>
These students will be in class for six months. After that, they will go on an internship to gain industrial knowledge, followed by a trade test under the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education.
Although they might not necessarily become good at everything like calculations compared to their counterparts who applied for direct learnership, NRZ Technical College is going to capacitate them with construction skills, and painting skills, among others.
</blockquote>
The technical college offers three main programs: an apprenticeship programme under the NRZ company, direct learnership, and a skilled worker programme.
The NRZ technical institution is affiliated with the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education through the curriculum research and development section to train as a non-governmental technical and vocational, education and training institution.

The NRZ technical college in Zimbabwe now has a new programme for students who don't have good grades in school. The programme teaches them practical skills like fixing cars and other technical work, even if they didn't do well in English, Math, or Science. These students will learn for six months, then work in a real job to learn more, and finally take a test to show what they learned. This helps students who may not be good at traditional school subjects but still want to learn useful skills. The college offers three different programmes to help students get the training they need.

NRZ Introduces Skilled Worker Training Programme For Students Without O-Level

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) goods train, transporting coal, derailed at Jangano near Kadoma on Sunday.
The incident occurred after Kadoma experienced heavy rainfall on Saturday night, which led to the accumulation of mud at a level crossing. The mud build-up covered the tracks, which ultimately caused the train to derail.
According to NRZ, the wet weather conditions, combined with the mud blocking the tracks, created unsafe conditions for the train, leading to the derailment.
The train’s load remained intact and no one was injured in the derailment.
NRZ workers have been on site to assess the damage and begin the process of clearing the tracks. Crews have also been working to remove the derailed train and restore normal operations. NRZ said:
<blockquote>
Our recovery team has managed to move the derailed wagons from the derailment site with their contents (coal) intact to the station. The team is now simultaneously busy with aligning the tracks and re-railing of the locomotive.
Kadoma experienced heavy rains (115mm in less than 12 hours) on Saturday night, this resulted in mud accumulating at the level crossing thus covering the tracks which then caused the train to derail. Fortunately, no one was injured due to this derailment.
</blockquote>
Commenting on the incident, journalist Hopewell Chin’ono said the country’s rail system has become “rotten” after decades of neglect and mismanagement. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
I am no longer surprised when I hear stories of train derailments in Zimbabwe, like this one near Kadoma today.
The railway system is rotten, yet it used to be better than the British railway system in the 1960s. 
As you can see, it no longer has railway sleepers, a basic necessity for basic railway systems for them to be safe.
I wonder what goes through the heads of our political leaders in government, they drive million-dollar Maybach limousines yet the railway system that is supposed to drive business is broken like this.
It is as embarrassing as it is tragic! Thank God nobody died in this accident. No country prospers without a decent railway network.
You can chant as many slogans as you want and bootlick the president as much as you like, but without a modern railway system, you are a banana republic!
</blockquote>

A train carrying coal derailed near Kadoma after heavy rain. The mud covered the tracks, causing the train to derail. Luckily, no one was hurt. Workers are clearing the tracks and fixing the train. A journalist said Zimbabwe's railway system is in bad shape and needs fixing. He thinks the government should focus on improving the railways for the country to prosper.

Coal-Laden NRZ Train Derails In Kadoma After Heavy Rainfall

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has successfully repaired the section of the Rutenga-Chicualacuala line that was damaged by heavy rainfall.
In a statement issued this Monday, the NRZ confirmed that the line was reopened to traffic just before 11 PM on Sunday, saying:
<blockquote>
The NRZ informs all its stakeholders that the rehabilitation of the section of the Rutenga-Chicualacuala line, which was washed away by rainwater, has been completed. The line was reopened to traffic last night at 2250hrs.
We applaud the employees who worked tirelessly to ensure that the tracks were restored and trains can run smoothly.
</blockquote>
On Friday, January 17, the NRZ reported major washaways on several sections of its rail lines due to the ongoing heavy rains.
The parastatal stated that the South East Line has been especially impacted, with 360 meters of track washed away on the Rutenga-Mbizi section and another 120 meters lost on the Rutenga-Beitbridge line.
The NRZ explained that these areas typically experience below-average rainfall, but are now facing unusually high rainfall, a trend attributed to climate change.
While similar washaways have occurred in the past, including on the Mozambican side of the border, the company noted that the current damage is the most severe in recent years.

The NRZ fixed a train track damaged by rain. The track washed away but now it's fixed. The repair was completed on Sunday night. The heavy rains caused lots of damage to other train tracks too. Climate change is making the rain worse. The company fixed the track so trains can run smoothly again. The damage this time was the worst in many years. The NRZ praised its workers for fixing the track.

NRZ Restores Rutenga-Chicualacuala Rail Line After Storm Damage

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has reported unprecedented washaways on parts of its rail lines due to the ongoing heavy rains.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 17, the NRZ said the South East Line has been particularly affected, with 360 meters of track washed away on the Rutenga-Mbizi section and another 120 meters lost on the Rutenga-Beitbridge line.
The NRZ explained that these areas typically receive below-average rainfall each year, but are now experiencing unusually high rainfall due to climate change.
The statement further explained that these regions are particularly vulnerable to such incidents due to their natural topography.
While similar washaways have occurred in the past, including on the Mozambican side of the border, the current damage is the most severe in recent years. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) wishes to inform the public, customers and all stakeholders that due to the ongoing incessant rains, we are experiencing washaways on some parts of our lines, particularly on the South East Line.
The heavy rainfall has resulted in the water flow overloading existing drainage structures.
Areas that have been adversely affected include the Rutenga-Mbizi section where 360 metres of tracks were washed away and also a section along the Rutenga-Beitbridge line where 120 metres of tracks were washed away, with gullies reaching two metres in some areas.
These are areas that normally receive below average rainfall per year and, due to climate change, they are 
now getting unusually high rainfall.
The area is susceptible to such incidents because of its natural topographic formation. Although we have previously had similar experiences in the same corridor over the past few years, including on the Mozambican side, this has been worse than any wash away we have seen before.
We would also like to assure the nation that our infrastructure teams are working around the clock to restore the track and ensure safe resumption of train operations.
Until repairs are completed, the affected section of the line will remain temporarily suspended.
Realigning of the line is now at 90% complete. The teams are now working on reballasting the area and applying quarry fines before the line can be reopened.
Currently, we have wagons loaded with ballast and quarry fines from our Nalatale Quarry Mine in Shangani already on the way to the sites and we are expecting the line to reopen and return to full functionality on Saturday, 18 January 2025.
We are pleased to report that no injuries to personnel or damage to rolling stock have been recorded.
To our valued customers and all stakeholders, we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is having issues with their rail lines because of heavy rains. Parts of the rail lines have been washed away, especially on the South East Line. This is happening because the areas are getting more rain than usual due to climate change. The NRZ is working hard to fix the tracks and hopes to have the line up and running again soon. No one has been hurt, and they are sorry for any inconvenience.

Heavy Rains Cause Unprecedented Washaways On NRZ Rail Lines

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has addressed a video circulating online that shows a shunt train hauling one loaded drop side wagon, which was misinterpreted as a mainline train transporting a single wagon.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 9, the NRZ explained that it operates two types of trains—main line and shunt trains.
Main line trains traverse long distances between towns and cities, using heavier locomotives that can haul up to 1700 gross tonnes.
Shunt trains, on the other hand, are used for placing and clearing traffic or empty wagons from customer sidings, as well as for assembling long-haul trains (putting several wagons together) or breaking them apart at their destination. These trains use lighter locomotives that can haul up to 700 gross tonnes.
The NRZ clarified that the train in the video is a shunt train, not a mainline train. It is specifically designed for smaller tasks, such as hauling one loaded wagon with 40 net tonnes of cargo for a client. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The NRZ wishes to clarify some misinformation going on regarding one of our shunt trains filmed hauling one loaded drop-side wagon.
It appears whoever filmed and distributed the footage online misconstrued that it was one of our mainline trains transporting one wagon.
As a matter of clarification, the NRZ has two types of trains which operate within its system, and these are known as main line and shunt trains.
Further, we use different types of locomotives to haul these trains, mainline locomotives are heavier and haul a maximum of 1700 gross tonnes whilst the shunt locomotive are lighter and thus haul a maximum of 700 gross tonnes.
The main line train is the one which traverses long distances between towns and cities while the shunt train is used for placing and clearing traffic or empty wagons from customer siding and for building a long-haultrain (putting several wagons together to make a train) or breaking a train when it arrives at the destination in preparation to place the cargo at different customer sidings.
The train appearing in the concerned video is a shunt train being hauled by our less heavy locomotive (shunt loco) and pulling one loaded wagon with 40 net tonnes of cargo for one of our clients.
This shunt train is precisely meant to carry out such small tasks and is never used for long-haul movement of cargo.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) explained that the video circulating online shows a shunt train, not a mainline train. Main line trains travel long distances with heavier locomotives, while shunt trains are used for smaller tasks with lighter locomotives. The train in the video was hauling one loaded wagon for a client. NRZ wants to clear up confusion about the type of train shown in the video. Shunt trains are not for long-haul movement of cargo, but for smaller jobs like putting together or breaking apart trains.

NRZ Sets The Record Straight On Viral Train Footage

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has determined that a fire which destroyed 40 decommissioned coaches at its main station in Bulawayo in September may have been caused by a cigarette stub left by an employee, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/cigarette-stub-started-fire-that-destroyed-decommissioned-coaches-worth-us40000-nrz/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Initially, the parastatal suspected foul play, as the incident followed another fire involving coaches in Harare, raising suspicions of arson.
However, NRZ general manager Respina Zinyanduko, appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts, revealed that internal investigations suggest the fire was likely caused by a discarded cigarette stub. She said:
<blockquote>
The initial report that I got from loss control as well as the report I got from a commission of inquiry that we set, it constituted of different departments of NRZ has indicated that it could be a fire was as a result of some employees, because we do not allow some people to smoke at work, some employees could have taken shelter in those coaches trying to hide and smoking a bit.
One of them might have left a stub that was still burning and there was the wind; it then resulted in the spread of fire.
</blockquote>
Zinyanduko told the Committee that the decommissioned coaches had surpassed their operational lifespan and were awaiting disposal as scrap.
Due to the fire, the NRZ incurred a loss of US$40,000 in the value of these coaches. Said Zinyanduko:
<blockquote>
The value that was lost was minimal because we had taken the seats from these coaches and they were fitted to those which were operational.
These were more like shells that were parked to be refurbished in the future or disposed of.
The value that was there was on the scrap value of the assets, I examined the coaches one by one myself and they are still in a condition in which we can dispose of them as scrap metal.
Those coaches in our books were carrying a value of about US$1,000 each because they were just shells.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A fire destroyed 40 old train coaches in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. At first, people thought it was done on purpose, but it turns out it might have been caused by a cigarette stub left by an employee. The train company, NRZ, lost $40,000 because of the fire, but the coaches were old and already useless. The company had plans to dispose of them as scrap. It was a big loss, but not as big as it could have been.

Discarded Cigarette Stub May Have Caused Fire That Destroyed 40 NRZ Coaches In Bulawayo

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has urged the public to remain vigilant when walking on or crossing railway tracks and for motorists to stop at all level crossings, proceeding only after ensuring no train is approaching.
This advisory, issued this Wednesday, October 23, follows a series of eight incidents within five days between October 19 and 23, 2024, in which five people were injured. Said the NRZ:
<blockquote>
The National Railways of Zimbabwe is concerned with the high frequency of accidents involving trains in the past few days. Five people were injured in eight separate incident over a five-day period between 19 and 23 October 2024.
In the first incident, a man was found on the tracks with a broken leg at Makwiro on Saturday after a train had passed through.
On Monday, a school girl suffered injuries after a cow hit by a train which had been in Chingwizi landed on her while on the Sekope-Gweru block, a man was hurt after also being hit by a train on the same day.
Also on Monday, a man sustained serious injuries after being knocked by a train near Odzi.
In Harare, a train hit a man who was walking along the tracks at the Magaba Flyover in Mbare on Tuesday. 
Two level cross accidents were recorded during the same period.
On Saturday, a vehicle was hit by a train at the Umganin level crossing in Bulawayo while in Hwange, a trailer being pulled by a South African registered truck was struck by a train.
Today, an Isuzu double cab vehicle was damaged when its driver tried to race against a train at the Birmingham Road level Crossing in Harare.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe warned people to be careful near railways. There were 8 accidents in 5 days, with 5 people getting hurt. One man had a broken leg, a girl was hit by a cow, and a man was hit by a train. A man in Odzi was also hurt. In Harare, a man was hit by a train while walking on the tracks. Two cars and a trailer were hit by trains at level crossings. The NRZ wants people to be safe and make sure no trains are coming before crossing tracks.

NRZ Issues Safety Warning After Multiple Railway Incidents

The National Railways of Zimbabwe has confirmed that a total of 51 decommissioned coaches were destroyed in a fire that broke out at the Bulawayo main station on Monday afternoon.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/nrz-fire-incident-51-passenger-coaches-reduced-to-shells/">Sunday News</a> on Tuesday, NRZ Public Relations Manager Andrew Kunambura said that the value of the damage and the cause of the fire has yet to be determined. He said:
<blockquote>
A total of 51 decommissioned passenger coaches were burnt by the fire which broke out on Monday around 1.30 PM.
The value of the burnt coaches is yet to be ascertained but since they were decommissioned, what it means is that we can only ascertain their disposable value as scrap.
We, together with the police and Fire Brigade, are still investigating the possible cause of the fire and we will update once the investigations are done.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said the coaches had been decommissioned years ago after exceeding their lifespan and were awaiting disposal as scrap.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) lost 51 old train coaches in a fire at the Bulawayo station. The cause of the fire is unknown. The value of the damage is not yet calculated. The coaches were old and waiting to be scrapped. The NRZ is investigating with the police and fire department to find out how the fire started. The coaches had been out of use for many years.

NRZ Confirms Loss Of 51 Coaches In Station Fire

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has refuted recent claims circulating on social media regarding its property holdings.
According to a statement released on Sunday, August 25, NRZ categorically denies owning an extensive portfolio of properties stretching from South Africa to London.
The NRZ also clarified that it does not possess any rights or control over properties associated with the NRZ Contributory Pension Fund.
The statement further addressed rumours about the extent of land ownership along its railway lines.
The NRZ asserted that it does not own or have legal rights to a 2-kilometre-wide strip of land on either side of its railway tracks.
Instead, the accurate information, according to the NRZ, is that the parastatal’s jurisdiction is limited to a Railway Reserve Land strip measuring 45 meters on either side of the tracks. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
CLARIFICATION ON SOME SOCIAL MEDIA MISCONCEPTIONS REGARDING NRZ PROPERTIES
The NRZ wishes to clarify certain misconceptions which have been trending on social media recently. Firstly, the NRZ does not own any shares and has no direct or indirect link, right or benefit from the London Stock Exchange.
Furthermore, NRZ does not own any property in the UK as some X users have claimed. NRZ has often been confused with the NRZ Contributory Pension Fund, especially on matters relating to property ownership both within and outside Zimbabwe.  The two are separate entities that are accountable individually.
NRZ has no rights nor control over properties owned by the Pension Fund. The relationship between the NRZ and the Pension Fund is that the NRZ is the sponsoring employer and as such, is adequately informed that the fund’s 
offshore properties are well-managed and proceeds are benefiting the membership.
The NRZ clarified this position in a recent presentation to the Joint sitting of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs and Transport and Infrastructural Development.
Secondly, there are claims that the NRZ owns and has a legal right to 2km of land on either side of the railway line. Nothing can be further from the truth.
The correct position is that 45 metres of land on either side of the tracks is regarded as Railway Reserve Land and is legally gazetted as such. Such land is reserved for future railway expansion.
Further to that, the NRZ does not own an inch of land in Johannesburg and has no properties in, Zambia and Botswana.
Thirdly, Rhodesia Railways used to own properties in Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa. The Rhodesia Railways assets were shared between successor railway entities, Zambia Railways Limited and National Railways of Zimbabwe.
The properties were being managed by a joint committee from both Zimbabwe and Zambia called the Higher Authority.
The Botswana line and properties as well as a few houses in Mafikeng, South Africa were thus disposed by the Higher Authority to the Botswana Government and sitting tenants respectively in the 1990s.
The mining rights in South Africa that were given to Rhodesia Railways by the late Cecil John Rhodes are jointly owned by NRZ, Zambia Railways and South Africa’s state mining entity called Africa Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation (AEMFC) at 33.33% shareholding apiece.
These are managed by an entity called Pan African Minerals Development Company (PAMDC). It should be noted that these are only mining rights excluding land ownership and that South African citizens have title deeds on the farms where the mining rights are sitting.
Lastly, it is correct that NRZ used to own houses in most Suburbs in cities like Bulawayo, Harare, Gweru among others.
However, it should be noted that these were disposed to sitting tenants, both before and after independence.
The last such massive employee empowerment programme through selling houses to sitting employee tenants having been done in the 1990s.
It is therefore not true that NRZ still retains ownership of all or most of the houses in these suburbs.
End
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has said that rumors on social media about its properties are not true. They do not own as much property as claimed, including in South Africa and London. NRZ clarified they don't control or have rights over certain properties linked to their pension fund. They also do not own a 2km wide strip of land next to their tracks, only a 45m railway reserve land. NRZ used to own houses in cities but sold them to tenants. The article explains the history of NRZ's property ownership and clarifies misunderstandings.

NRZ Refutes Social Media Claims About Its Assets

Three National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) crew members were killed when a train which was on its way to Beira Port in Mozambique derailed between Mutare and Machipanda yesterday evening.
The NRZ confirmed the accident in a statement issued on Tuesday morning, saying the train may have suffered a brake failure.
The train, which was reportedly pulling 14 wagons laden with nine (9) export chrome concentrates and five (5) granite blocks, plunged into a gorge. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) would like to inform the nation of a fatal train accident which took place between Mutare and Machipanda around 2100hrs on Monday, 19 February 2024.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the locomotive, which was pulling 14 wagons laden with nine (9) export chrome concentrates and five (5) granite blocks, may have suffered a brake failure leading to a runaway which culminated in the train failing to negotiate a sharp curve thereby falling into the gorge.
Sadly the three (3) NRZ Crews were trapped and could not make it to safety. Their identities cannot be divulged until their next of kin have been advised.
The NRZ board, management and staff would like to express sincere condolences to the families of the hardworking, dedicated crew members who shall always be remembered by the Railways family.
Our thoughts are with their families and we pray for God to comfort and strengthen them in these very difficult times.
Investigations are still underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, after which full details will be disclosed.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three NRZ Crew Members Killed As Train Derails And Plunges Into A Gorge

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) train which was on its way to Beira Port in Mozambique derailed yesterday evening.
In a statement, the NRZ said the train had a runaway between Mutare and Machipanda. The NRZ said:
<blockquote>
The NRZ would like to inform the nation of a train accident which happened on the evening of Monday, 19 February 2024. The train, which was on its way to the Beira Port, had a runaway and derailed between Mutare and Machipanda. More details to follow.
</blockquote>
A runaway train is a type of railroad incident in which unattended rolling stock is accidentally allowed to roll onto the main line, a moving train loses enough braking power to be unable to stop in safety, or a train operates at unsafe speeds due to loss of operator control.
Port Beira serves as a gateway by road and, rail and pipeline to Zimbabwe, and road and rail to Botswana, Zambia, DR Congo, and Malawi.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NRZ Train Derails Between Mutare And Machipanda

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has dismissed reports on social media claiming it was selling some of its properties, including commercial stands in Harare.
In a statement, NRZ said it is not selling land anywhere in the country and urged those who want to lease its land around the country, to apply through its Regional Estates Offices in Harare, Gweru and Bulawayo. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The National Railways of Zimbabwe has noted with grave concern that there are some people peddling falsehoods on social media and other platforms that NRZ is sub-dividing some of its land along Kenneth Kaunda Street in Harare.
The falsehoods also indicate that NRZ is selling land around Seke Road Flyover in Harare and there are fake agents claiming to be representing NRZ in these purported disposals.
The fact of the matter is that the NRZ is not selling land anywhere in Zimbabwe and does not engage agents regarding issues to do with the land under its administration.
Members of the public and prospective business partners who may want to lease NRZ land anywhere around the country are duly advised to make applications through the Regional Estates Offices situated in Harare, Gweru and Bulawayo.
Members of the public are also advised to disregard messages claiming that any of the NRZ land is for sale, this may result in them being fleeced of their hard-earned money.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

We Are Not Selling Land - NRZ

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) artisan was seriously injured in the head after a piece of timber struck him and became lodged in his forehead.
The incident occurred at the NRZ mechanical workshops in Raylton on Wednesday morning.
NRZ Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Andrew Kunambura, confirmed the incident to CITE. He said:
<blockquote>
We can confirm a workplace injury involving a Senior Wood Machinist which occurred on Wednesday 7 December 2022.
This happened when he was planking a piece of timber that flew back at him from the powerful circular saw machine he was using.
This resulted in a splinter hitting him on the forehead and injuring him. He was preparing it for a student undergoing a trade test.
</blockquote>
Kunambura said the Senior Wood Machinist was admitted at Mpilo Central Hospital where he was receiving treatment and his condition was stable.
CITE reported sources as saying the artisan’s forehead was stitched after the piece of wood was removed.

NRZ Artisan Injured In Freak Accident... Piece Of Timber Lodges In His Forehead

The government said the recapitalisation of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is key to the country’s economic growth.
The Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Responsible for Monitoring, Implementation of Government Programmes, Joram Gumbo, said the resuscitation of NRZ will also prevent damage to the road infrastructure as more goods would be transported by rail.
Speaking during a tour of the NRZ workshops on Thursday, Gumbo also said ZWL$2 billion had been pledged to fund the refurbishing of NRZ infrastructure. Said Gumbo:
<blockquote>
NRZ is a vital link to economic development, more so for a land-locked country like ours. It is therefore important to ensure the company is recapitalised.
The government continues to support your efforts to re-equip and recapitalize the organization in order to give you a competitive advantage.
In this regard, ZWL$2 billion has been pledged to fund the refurbishment and reestablishment of NRZ infrastructure.
I have been informed that the target for this year is to refurbish four main lines, five shunting locomotives and 940 wagons.
I urge you to apply yourselves fully to this project given the fact that for the entity to operate optimally… 170 coaches are required.
</blockquote>
Gumbo said the increase in vehicular traffic on the country’s roads has brought with it many challenges. He said:
<blockquote>
The volume of trucks on our roads has increased exponentially over the years and has brought with it many challenges the rapid increase in road freight is a cause for concern because of the damage on our roads. 
Congestion and the rise in accidents, these problems are partly due to the goods that are being transported by roads instead of rail. 
It is our hope that upon completion your project should assist in relieving pressure on our road network.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://cite.org.zw/resuscitate-nrz-to-save-roads-minister/">CITE</a>

Resuscitate NRZ To Save Roads - Minister Gumbo

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has temporarily suspended the urban commuter train service “due to capacity challenges”.
In a statement, NRZ Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager Andrew Kunambura said the suspension is with effect from 28 November 2022. He said:
<blockquote>
The suspension was occasioned by an unsustainable operating environment arising from huge debts owed to NRZ by ZUPCO.
NRZ was therefore left with no option but to suspend commuter trains from 28 November due to capacity challenges.
Normal services will resume once ZUPCO fulfills its obligations as set in the agreement.
</blockquote>
The urban commuter train service was launched in partnership with ZUPCO last year to ease congestion in Bulawayo and Harare at the height of the coronavirus crisis. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/nrz-suspends-urban-commuter-train-service/">CITE</a>

NRZ Suspends Urban Commuter Train Service

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) says it will auction its disused wagons and other obsolete metals which have become expensive to repair.
The auctions will be conducted by Desired Liaison Auctioneers at NRZ headquarters in Bulawayo as well as in Harare this week.
Newly appointed spokesperson, Andrew Kunambura, told State media that the proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish operating wagons and procurement of new ones. Said Kunambura:
<blockquote>
NRZ is a heavy user of metal, which is used in the manufacture of wagons and their respective components.
Some of these wagons were acquired many years ago and are obsolete. Once this happens, the wagons are scrapped and from time to time the NRZ sells this scrap metal.
However, this is the first time NRZ is disposing of its scrap metal through the public auction system.
Previously, the NRZ disposed of its scrap metal through the tender process.
It’s also the most transparent way of asset disposal as all bids are called out to all participants and award is done in full view of everyone.
Proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish wagons in use and procurement of new wagons.
Viewing will be done at least a day before the auction and since wagons are scattered along the railway line in various places within the country, viewing will be for just a sample, in Harare and Bulawayo.
Wagons will be sold using wagon number, estimated tonnage and location. Only ungraded scrap will be disposed of, which means it excludes wheels and axles as the organisation is intending to use the graded scrap for its induction furnace.
</blockquote>

NRZ To Auction Disused Wagons, Scrap Metal

National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) board chairperson Martin Dinha has implored the government to subsidise the urban commuter train service to enable the parastatal to continue serving members of the public.
Dinha said this in a speech read on his behalf during the launch of the third edition of the NRZ National Safety Week, which is also commemorated by Southern Africa Railway Association members.
The theme for the commemorations this year was “Be Vigilant around Tracks, Trains are fast but too slow to stop”. Said Dinha:
<blockquote>
Our passenger service, particularly in the commuter trains such as the ones that run in Luveve, Cowdry Park, are never profit-oriented world over but community and social-based. We are basically serving the community.
In conjunction with ZUPCO, we request the government to provide a subsidy for commuter train services which we offer in urban areas.
… We continue to rely on government support to ensure we achieve the objective of turning around the fortunes of this great entity.
As we go into the twilight zone of the turnaround phase, we have been geared for this transformation so that we bring NRZ to its rightful position in terms of influencing our economy.
</blockquote>
Dinha expressed concern over the increase in unsafe activities around the railway tracks which include railroad-level crossing accidents, suicides on the tracks, stone throwing, vandalism, illegal gold panning and mining.
He appealed to line Ministries and other government departments to assist the NRZ in protecting the national infrastructure.
The NRZ first introduced commuter trains (commonly known as Freedom Trains) in Harare and Bulawayo in 2001.
The company suspended the service in 2020 following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic but reintroduced it in 2021 in partnership with the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO). | <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2022/10/13/government-urged-to-subsidise-the-urban-commuter-train-service/">New Ziana</a>

Govt Urged To Subsidise NRZ Commuter Service

The widows of late pensioners of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) are reportedly getting US $2 a month as pension.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/nrz-pensioners-widows-getting-us2-per-month/">NewsDay reports</a> that the widows are getting $1 200 in the local currency. The widows recently engaged the NRZ on the matter and were promised the equivalent of US $18 per month.
Said one of the Widows:
<blockquote>
NRZ is taking us for granted, what can one buy with $1 200? It only buys one loaf of bread. Some of us are on medication, and we end up defaulting because we cannot afford it. We cannot take medication on empty stomachs. We are unable to pay council rates, pay for electricity or buy food. We live in abject poverty.
</blockquote>
And another said:
<blockquote>
We have other members among the NRZ widows who have passed on due to starvation. How can such a big company give widows low pensions like that? They are old people who cannot fend for themselves. Some of these widows are diabetic, or suffer from hypertension and arthritis, among other diseases
Worse still even if old people do not pay fees at public health institutions, there are no drugs there. Widows are forced to buy their medication at pharmacies whose prices are very exorbitant. They are struggling to get food.
</blockquote>

US $2 Per Month Pension For NRZ Pensioner's Widows

Former National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) employees have petitioned President Emmerson Mnangagwa requesting him to sack the company’s general manager, Respina Zinyanduko.
The disgruntled former NRZ employees accuse Zinyanduko of nepotism, and ill-treatment of workers, among many other misdemeanours.
A statement by the National Railways of Zimbabwe Axed Worker’s Committee (NRZAWC) reads in part:
<blockquote>
The NRZAWC would like to put it on record that the petition against Zinyanduko to His Excellency the President of Zimbabwe, (Emmerson) Mnangagwa on NRZ’s goings-on is a reality consented and appended to by all fired railway workers represented by NRZ union leadership, contract workers and senior managers.
Therefore, there is no doubt that all fired workers scattered want Zinyanduko to be removed from the NRZ helm and are part of this cause of saving the organisation from this rot.
Respina Zinyanduko has diverted the core business of the NRZ. Nowadays she fires employees daily.
She fired the top 20 union managers for questioning the logic of acquiring state-of-the-art vehicles for her puppet managers when the lowest worker at NRZ is getting ZWL$8 100 per month.
</blockquote>
The NRZAWC says it was formed in August 2021 and to date, it has more than 1 520 members who had served the parastatal for over 10 years.
Zinyanduko was appointed as NRZ general manager in December last year, making her the first female to hold that position.
More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/ex-nrz-workers-petition-ed/">Business Times</a>

Disgruntled Former NRZ Workers Petition Mnangagwa

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) employee died after a load of steel bars fell on him at the company’s mechanical engineering workshop.
The now-deceased, Nelson Chiname, was the company’s acting blacksmith foreman.
New Zimbabwe reported a source as saying the bars fell on Chiname as he was passing through the area.
It was reported that Chiname didn’t even touch the trusses, where the steel bars were staked. They just collapsed, probably due to wear from rust. Another source was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Chiname’s death was an accident, but inspectors should have picked out this safety glitch.
Last time, about three years back, an electrical attachee also lost his life after a pole collapsed. Our old metal structures are risky.
If one is to ask about periodic inspections, the response is no good.
</blockquote>
NRZ acting spokesperson Martin Banda confirmed the accident. He promised to release more details later.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/nrz-employee-dies-in-workplace-accident/">New Zimbabwe</a></h4>

NRZ Foreman Killed In Freak Workplace Accident

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has retrenched 20 workers citing an increase in operational costs amid fears that more people could lose their jobs.
Executives from the five workers’ unions were allegedly targeted to be part of the 20 employees who were retrenched last week.
This comes after management and workers’ unions failed to reach an agreement over the retrenchments during a recent meeting.
The NRZ workers want a salary increment of more than 200% and that half of the salaries be paid in United States dollars.
Currently, the highest paid artisan is reportedly earning below the equivalent of US$200.
NRZ acting public relations manager Martin Banda told NewsDay that allegations of victimisation were untrue, saying the laying off of the workers was in response to rising costs. Banda said:
<blockquote>
Seeking better working conditions cannot be an excuse for victimising and retrenching people.
It is a well-known fact that our economy is not doing well and as such everyone has a right to air their grievances at appointed platforms and collective bargain takes its course.
We are retrenching at present 20 employees who are considered as excess staff and currently sitting in the general manager’s pool.
This is unfortunate in that initially we had pledged that we were not going to retrench anyone except through natural attrition but due to major changes happening on the market including a rise in operational costs of business such as fuel and foreign currency availability which has been constrained.
We, therefore, could not continue to have people on the payroll who are redundant.
</blockquote>
An unnamed senior manager also denied that the retrenched workers were being victimised. The manager was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
The affected employees belonged to what is called the general manager’s pool which was created for employees that have nothing to do after the restructuring exercise which we just completed. Where is the victimisation here?
These are people who have already been made redundant and as a management team, we can’t justify paying people who have been idle.
One locomotive will never be profitable if it is maintained by 300 artisans. Never.
At this rate, we were paying people who are not productive and eventually we would fail to pay those who are productive and the obvious would happen.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/03/nrz-lays-off-workers/">NewsDay</a></h4>

NRZ Retrenches Workers, Cites Rising Operational Costs

More than 280 workers at the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) have been redeployed to other departments that are understaffed within the parastatal as the ongoing restructuring exercise continues.
A total of 762 employees will be affected by the restructuring programme at NRZ and management have assured the workers that no job losses will be triggered by the ongoing exercise.
NRZ acting public relations manager Martin Banda confirmed the development, saying the aim of the restructuring exercise is to improve service delivery. Banda said:
<blockquote>
The aim is to bring improvement in the quality of service delivery through optimisation of the organisation operational activities, cost-based rationalisation and profitability enhancement.
Out of about 4 500 employees, we have got 762 workers mainly affected by the restructuring exercise.
And from those 762, we have got 288 who have already been deployed into other areas within the organisation.
Bearing in mind that on a monthly basis, we have got natural attrition of almost 30 people leaving service due to age, medical reasons and some who opt to leave the railways.
So, at the end of the day, we are talking about some adverts which are going to be advertised for about 200 people and these are non-officers and staff.
</blockquote>
NRZ acting general manager, Respina Zinyanduko, said the restructuring programme was not a witchhunt thus no one will be retrenched. She said:
<blockquote>
The restructuring exercise is not a witchhunt and we have assured our workers that no one will be made redundant.
What is happening is that some people have already been redeployed within NRZ to departments that are understaffed.
Where we have got excess staff, such workers will be registered under the general manager’s pool and will remain there until redeployed by management.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/280-nrz-workers-redeployed/">Chronicle</a></h4>

762 NRZ Workers To Be Redeployed

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has denied that a viral visual picture of stolen rail is part of its railway network.
Responding to a post on Twitter by freelance journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, the NRZ denounced what it called irresponsible journalists who propagate lies for their supper. NRZ said in a series of tweets in what turned out to be a Twar with Chin’ono:
<blockquote>The NRZ would like to set the record straight on the viral visual picture of stolen rail. NRZ has got no section of its network with that missing rail in Zimbabwe. We challenge the original sender of the visual or you Mr Chin’ono to tell us the place or site.
NRZ has got track patrolman who patrol our network at every instance and what is clear is that this is a fabrication or photo shop to tarnish the NRZ family’s image and reputation. We call upon you Mr Chin’ono to toll free to confirm with us before publishing.
It is very sad that the journalists whom we expect to be responsible and promote development with factual stories are the ones who are peddling lies for their supper. This is our country and infrastructure which we should develop with progressive stories.
… Comrade substantiate your allegations of looting. Its sad that a failed journalistic like yourself you still act like a novice. We do not work with allegations but focus on development going forward. We build our country by correcting our past not rhetoric.
… This is because of the vandalism and theft of copper cables and signal communications equipment by Zimbabweans &amp; most of the innocent people are being used by rich people. Zimbabwe will never be built by such hostility but by concerted efforts especially now.
Incompetence and failure seems to be part of you Mr Chin’ono because if you as a so-called journalist can not respect your own ethics by balancing your reports then you are the very poison that this country does not need now. Express your freedom ethically.</blockquote>
In a tweet, Chin’ono had suggested that the missing rail may have been stolen by a former NRZ employee. Said Chin’ono:
<blockquote>When a railway line goes missing, it is because someone who has worked for NRZ has been involved in my view.
Now the main question is why would a railway line be stolen?
What do they use it for? Do they smelt it through melting?
I am confused as to why this would happen?
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E2nzO-DWQAI_LfK?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/></blockquote>
Meanwhile, the NRZ is reportedly working towards transforming its operations into a modern and world-class service that caters for both inter and intra-city commuters.
NRZ chairman, Martin Dinha, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/nrz-working-to-modernise-operations/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">recently told State media</a> that the NRZ remains strategic to the country’s economic turnaround efforts as a key enabler in the transport and logistics front.

'It's Not Ours', NRZ Dismisses Stolen Rail Viral Picture

With the ever-increasing cost of travelling over long distances across the country, travellers are now opting to use passenger trains which are cheaper than buses.
However, there have been reports of passengers stampeding for trains, with two fatalities witnessed at the National Railways station in Harare.
Speaking to State media, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) public relations manager, Nyasha Maravanyika said that investigations are being done to ascertain the cause of deaths. He said:
<blockquote>We received reports that two people collapsed on our Harare-Mutare passenger train. We are investigating the reasons behind the collapse.
Going forward, we have improved our itinerary in order to prioritise the safety of our passengers. We are getting down to the issues that have been happening, especially on the Harare-Murare route.
As the National Railways of Zimbabwe, we strive to see that the safety of our passengers is our first priority.
We are putting all our efforts to make sure that our passengers are safe and they reach their destinations without any hustles.
The immediate measures to control stampedes in our passenger trains is to adhere to the required maximum number of passengers.
With the overwhelming number of passengers booking, I urge travelling parties to book on time and avoid unnecessary stampedes.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/long-distance-commuters-opt-for-rail" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Long-distance Travellers Stampede For NRZ Passenger Trains

<blockquote>NOTICE OF NRZ FREIGHT CHARGES REVERTING TO OCTOBER 2018 US$ RATES LEVELS WITH EFFECT FROM 01 JUNE 2019
The National Railways of Zimbabwe wishes to advise you our valued customer that the current unstable macro-economic environment which has affected all organisations by rising costs of key and critical components such as fuel, spare parts and labour has not spared us despite our endeavour to continue to provide you with a sustainable and predictable service.
To this end and in order to continue to sustain a reasonable service to industry and other consumers, we shall revert to the US$ rate that prevailed in October 2018 prior to the separation of Nostro and RTGS Accounts.
The freight rates may be paid either in hard currency or RTGS$ at the prevailing Inter-bank Rate at the time of processing of payment.
The US$ rate shall be used as the invoicing base and at the time of remittance, if payment is made in RTGS at the prevailing Interbank Rate, the payment will be converted to US$ for the purpose of crediting the customer’s freight account.
For specific rates by commodity and route, our Regional Marketing Offices are ready to confirm the applicable rates which we believe you already have. Kindly feel free to contact our Regional Marketing Managers.
The freight rates for over-boarder traffic which are already denominated US$ will remain unchanged. The rate charges cited above affect local movements only.
All our conditions of service will remain the same and we are confident that our valued customers will benefit from this strategic thrust which brings in predictability that is essential for planning purposes.
Yours faithfully 
ENG.LA. Mukwada 
General Manager</blockquote>
<img decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D7040pfW4AAHcVd.jpg"/>

FULL TEXT: NRZ To Rivert Back To 2018 USD Rates For Invoicing

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ)’s revival is ongoing as the parastatal seeks to finalise a deal with South Africa’s Transnet and a consortium of local investors, the Diaspora Infrastructure Development Group.
This was revealed by the company’s general manager Lewis Mukwada who also said that in total, NRZ requires $400 million for recapitalisation. He said:
<blockquote>Out of that $400 million (recapitalisation deal), about $120 million or so is going towards the track infrastructure itself, a further $100 million or so is going towards signalling and communication, information communication technology and so on.
Then the balance will go towards new locomotives, new wagons and rehabilitation of the existing locomotives and wagons. So… we looked at our system and then identified the critical areas where we needed to invest. That’s how we came up with that budget of $400 million.
We have just been given another six months to pursue the discussions [with Transnet] further and as we talk, next week we are going to be engaging again with the consortium in further negotiations and further discussions to push the deal.</blockquote>
<h4>Related:</h4>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title">
<h4><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/11/01/nrz-reintroduces-commuter-passenger-trains/">NRZ Reintroduces Commuter Passenger Trains</a></h4>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h4><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/02/11/nrz-making-huge-losses-from-commuter-trains-request-govt-subsidy/">NRZ Making Huge Losses From Commuter Trains, Request Govt Subsidy</a></h4>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<h4><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/03/17/nrz-to-open-new-routes-across-the-country/">NRZ To Open New Routes Across The Country</a></h4>
</li>
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<h4><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/02/11/cowdray-park-residents-laud-nrz-commuter-train/">Cowdray Park Residents Laud NRZ Commuter Train</a></h4>
</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/04/nrz-slowly-rebounding/">Newsday</a>

NRZ Slowly But Surely Coming Back To Life - Report

National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) yesterday increased fares on its inter-city passenger trains by up to 150 percent on some routes with immediate effect.
NRZ operates three daily and two weekly inter-city passenger train services countrywide. The daily train return routes are Bulawayo-Victoria Falls, Bulawayo-Harare and Mutare-Harare while the weekly service is offered on the Bulawayo-Chiredzi and Bulawayo-Chikwalakwala routes. NRZ Public Relations Manager, Mr Nyasha Maravanyika said the increase was a result of rising operational expenses.
He said the increase affects all the three classes with effect from 25 February 2019.  First Class travellers on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls and Bulawayo-Harare routes will now pay $20 up from $12. The second class is now pegged at $17 from $8 and the economy class is now pegged at $15 from $6.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/nrz-hikes-inter-city-fares/">Chronicle</a>

NRZ Increases Fares For Passenger Trains

National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) public relations manager Mr Nyasha Maravanyika said they have increased Freedom Train coaches on their City-Cowdray Park route in Bulawayo from eight to 12.
He said as of now, the NRZ cannot introduce train services on other routes in the city such as the city-Emganwini route or in other cities such as Harare. Said Maravanyika:
<blockquote>The number of people had increased even before the protests. We were recording as much as over 1 000 people on a trip. We had to increase our coaches. Initially we had eight coaches and we have increased them to around 11-12. At the moment the NRZ does not have sufficient resources and our teams are working on refurbishing some of the old coaches to make sure that they are suitable for commuters’ occupancy. It’s not only Emganwini. There are cries from Harare, we have the Passenger Association of Zimbabwe making calls for a train. It’s not just in Bulawayo but we have to look at the broader picture.</blockquote>
<hr/>
<h4>Related:</h4>
<ul>
<li>
<h3><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/11/01/nrz-reintroduces-commuter-passenger-trains/">NRZ Reintroduces Commuter Passenger Trains</a></h3>
</li>
</ul>
<hr/>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/nrz-increases-freedom-train-coaches-in-bulawayo/">Chronicle</a>

NRZ Increases Commuter Passanger Train Coaches In Bulawayo

In an interview with The Chronicle, National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) Public Relations Manager Mr Nyasha Maravanyika said they are re-introducing the commuter passenger trains in Bulawayo starting Monday next week.
The commuter train will operate two services between Bulawayo Station and Esigodweni in Cowdray Park in the morning and in the evening from Monday to Friday. There will be no train during the weekend. Maravanyika said the fare is pegged at 50 cents for a single ride. Multi-ride tickets can be bought using swipe or Ecocash at the Bulawayo Station. Said Maravanyika:
Only cash payment will be accepted for single ride tickets and purchases can be made either before boarding or while on board the train. Commuters can also buy 10 multi-ride tickets for $4,50.
Maravanyika said the morning commuter train will depart Bulawayo Station at 4:05AM and arrive at Esigodweni at 5:30AM. The train will depart at 5:35AM and arrive at Bulawayo Station at 7AM. The evening train will leave Bulawayo Station at 5.30PM and arrive at Esigodweni at 6:50PM. It will depart for the return trip at 6:55PM and arrive at 8:15PM.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/nrz-introduces-commuter-trains/">Chronicle</a>

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