In a major boost to “Make in India” on the global stage, the final consignment of ten advanced diesel-electric locomotives has reached the Port of Maputo, marking the successful completion of a landmark export agreement between Indian Railways and Mozambique.
The delivery, confirmed by the Ministry of Railways on April 20, 2026, underscores India’s growing influence as a reliable partner for large-scale infrastructure projects across the African continent.
Engineering Excellence from Varanasi
The locomotives were designed and indigenously manufactured by Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi. Specifically tailored for Mozambique’s rail network, these machines are built to withstand heavy-haul requirements while maintaining high operational efficiency.
The Logistics Journey
The project, managed by RITES Limited, was executed in phases starting in mid-2025. The final batch of units was dispatched from the Varanasi facility in February 2026, arriving at their destination this week.
With nearly one-third of Mozambique’s locomotive fleet (CFM) now sourced from India, the partnership has moved beyond simple procurement into a long-term strategic alliance involving technology exchange and maintenance support.
Expanding the African Footprint
The completion of the Mozambique order is just one chapter in India’s broader rail diplomacy. RITES is currently aggressively expanding into other Southern African markets:
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South Africa: Active discussions and new contracts for 3100 HP locomotives to support the restoration of goods rail networks.
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Zimbabwe: Recent orders from the Berhard Group mark India’s entry into a new strategic rail corridor.
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Botswana: Ongoing MoUs focused on total railway modernization.
Strategic Outlook
By providing cost-effective, high-tech alternatives to Western and Chinese rolling stock, Indian Railways is positioning itself as the primary catalyst for African rail modernization. The focus is now shifting toward introducing Vande Bharat technology—capable of running on existing tracks—to meet the rising demand for semi-high-speed passenger travel across the region.
