Trade Connectivity
- Reliable, efficient transport for copper, petroleum, agricultural products and general cargo.
- Connects the Copperbelt to the Atlantic with 6–7 day transit times - outpacing routes via Dar es Salaam, Beira and Durban.
Project Impact
A Catalyst for Regional
Trade and Growth
The ZLR transforms trade connectivity across Southern and Central Africa - generating preliminary US$3 billion in Net Economic Benefits while meeting international environmental and social standards.
- $0bn Net Economic Benefits
- 0days Transit to the Atlantic
- 0Mt Annual Freight by 2031
- 0km New Greenfield Rail
Economic & Social Value
Trade routes that build economies.
Economic Growth
- Substantial construction employment plus long-term operational positions along the corridor.
- Anchors agricultural production targets, opening new markets for Zambian and Angolan farmers.
- US$3 billion in preliminary Net Economic Benefits driven by increased consumer surplus.
Environmental Standards
International best practice from day one.
The ZLR adheres to IFC Performance Standards covering environmental & social risk management, labour and working conditions, resource efficiency, community health and safety, land acquisition, resettlement, and biodiversity conservation.
The development framework also incorporates the AfDB Integrated Safeguards System, the Equator Principles, and World Bank Group EHS Guidelines. ESIA & RAP are being undertaken by Insuco.
- IFC Performance Standards - Full alignment across all 8 standards
- AfDB Integrated Safeguards System - Compliance with continental development bank framework
- Equator Principles - Project finance risk management
- World Bank EHS Guidelines - Industry-leading environmental, health & safety practices
