BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE – In it’s ambitious 2026/27 targets, the Eswatini Railways (ESR) plan a test train for the 168 Radio Distributed Power (RDP) Loaded Train from Phalaborwa to Richards Bay via Eswatini — scheduled for 17–26 June 2026.
In a statement credited to Bhekisisa Manyatsi – Assistant Director Train Operations, dated May 11, 2026 at the ESR website, it is stated that as the company continues to move the 160-empty-wagon, 6-locomotive front header from Richards Bay to Phalaborwa via Eswatini, the plan is to test the 168 RDP Loaded Train next month.
“We plan a test train for the 168 Radio Distributed Power (RDP) Loaded Train from Phalaborwa to Richards Bay via Eswatini — scheduled after the June 2026 Shutdown (17–26 June 2026). Passing of this test train with the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) will be a gamechanger for both Eswatini Railways (ESR) and Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) for this Corridor,” reads the statement.
84-wagon Loaded Magnetite Train
It also highlights that Eswatini Railways has reached a significant operational milestone — a successful test run of an 84-wagon loaded magnetite train, marking a pivotal step toward increased efficiency and enhanced cargo throughput.
“Eswatini Railways has reached a significant operational milestone in its freight transportation capacity. On September 9, 2025, a successful test run of an 84-wagon loaded magnetite train was conducted, marking a pivotal step toward increased efficiency and enhanced cargo throughput. This development reflects the organisation’s commitment to optimising rail infrastructure and supporting regional logistics growth,” the statement reads.
According to the communique, the test train, operated by Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), travelled from Phalaborwa to Richards Bay through Eswatini and returned successfully. The purpose of the trial was to assess whether existing infrastructure within Eswatini could accommodate longer trains consisting of 84 wagons.
Eswatini Mainline Accomodate Extended Train
It is revealed that the results were largely positive. All crossing loops and stations within the Eswatini mainline were able to accommodate the extended train length, with the exception of Lavumisa Station, which was found to be shorter than required. Despite this limitation, operational planning confirmed that train crossings can still be effectively managed across the network.
An evaluation of crossing loops and station lengths was conducted to determine readiness for 84-wagon operations.
The data the findings confirmed that the majority of stations meet the operational requirements for longer trains, ensuring minimal disruption to scheduling and logistics. The 84-wagon train commanding a 5,292 Ton Payload is hauled by 3 powerful 44 class GE/TE constructed locomotives with each locomotive commanding a throughput of 4200 hp and having its maiden run in 2015 on the Nort-East Corridor now known as the Mineral Mining and Chrome (MMC) Business Unit with its traffic mainly originating from Phalaborwa(Pit) to both Richards Bay and Maputo Ports.
Railway Safety Regulator Granted Approval
Following the successful trial, a comprehensive report was submitted to the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). After review, the RSR granted approval for the official rollout of 84-wagon train operations. This approval signified compliance with safety standards and reinforced confidence in the upgraded system.
“The transition from 80-wagon to 84-wagon trains introduces measurable efficiency gains. Each train now carries an additional four wagons, translating to approximately 252 extra tons per trip. This increase will significantly enhance freight capacity without requiring additional train movements.”
Eswatini Railways has outlined ambitious targets for the 2026–2027 financial year:
MAGNETITE MOVEMENT
• Planned trains:1,159 loaded trains
• Base tonnage:5,842,368 tons
• Additional tonnage from extended wagons:292,068 tons
• Total projected magnetite tonnage:Over 6 million tons
ROCK PHOSPHATE MOVEMENT
• Planned trains:202 loaded trains
• Base tonnage:1,016,064 tons
• Additional tonnage from extended wagons:50,904 tons
TOTAL ADDITIONAL CAPACITY
• Combined increase:342,972 tons
These projections, according to the company, demonstrate the substantial economic and operational benefits associated with the extended train configuration.
Train Drivers Undergone Certificate To Operate
To support this transition, all train drivers have undergone certification to operate 84-wagon trains. Operations are now fully functional along the Komatipoort–Golela corridor, ensuring seamless integration of the longer trains into daily train service.
The successful introduction of 84-wagon trains marks a transformative moment for Eswatini Railways. By leveraging existing infrastructure and enhancing operational capacity, the organisation is positioned to significantly increase freight volumes and improve overall efficiency. This milestone not only strengthens Eswatini’s rail transport capabilities but also contributes to regional trade and economic development.
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