Africa Rail’s Post

Thrilled to attend the Africa Rail conference last week, 25-26 June, in Johannesburg, South Africa. I’ve had the privilege to participate in different speaking sessions. Day -1: I made presentation about strategies to ensure sustainability of the African Rail network highlighting the Ethiopian rail network history (narrow gauge, diesel-powered), the achievements of a new electrified standard gauge rail network, the challenges, and wrapping up with the strategies to overcome and ensure sustainability of the Africa rail. - I’ve also participated on a strategic panel discussion session with a flexible and communicable moderator Sifiso Nzimande, panelists Victor Shange (PMP) and Wilson Mogoba on the burning question of owning and leasing rolling assets: reviewing the benefits and drawbacks. Day 2: I participated on another panel discussion, Electric or Diesel: debating questions on flexibility, infrastructure cost, logistics, and sustainability with broaden–knowledge moderator David Taylor and experienced operation manager Anil Kumar. It was an exciting learning and networking event with the African Rail stakeholders, operators, manufacturers, suppliers, and experts.