The feasibility study for the railway line from Grootfontein via the Kavango Regions to Katima Mulilo was finalised a year ago, and its findings rated the project favourably under different regional participation models.

This was stated by the Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi, in response to NDP's leader Martin Lukato on the infrastructure's progress since its approval by the 7th National Assembly.  

The minister acknowledged the strategic importance of the railway extension but stressed that it is a complex and capital-intensive undertaking.

According to the study, if Namibia were to undertake the project alone, it would score a viability ratio of six.

"When Namibia and Zambia are alone, the two countries participate, around 7. Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia give us the ratio of the highest of 9. So that disability is favourable in all three facets. We just concluded now to procure the service of the transactional advisory and the method of engagement with a consultant that was finalised."

The minister described the feasibility outcomes as favourable across all three scenarios.

He further revealed that the government has now concluded the procurement process for a transactional advisor, and the draft agreement has been submitted to the African Development Bank for consideration.
The railway line is expected to enhance regional trade connectivity and unlock economic opportunities in the northeastern regions once implemented.