Mali celebrated a significant milestone as its long-awaited passenger train service resumed operations after a hiatus of five years.
The service, which connects the capital city of Bamako to the western regions of the country, recommenced commercial activities on Friday, June 9th.
The inaugural trip of locomotive CC2207 for SOPAFER-Mali was witnessed by a delighted crowd, including the Governor of Kayes, Colonel Moussa Soumare, and eager passengers.
Kayes, a vital trading hub located near the Senegal border, stands to benefit greatly from the revival of the passenger train service.
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After a 400-kilometer journey, the train was anticipated to reach Bamako early on Saturday, marking a significant step in the revitalization of the rail line.
The rehabilitation project faced substantial delays over the past 15 years, ultimately leading to a suspension of service in May 2018 due to inadequate maintenance.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance revealed that the restoration efforts incurred costs of approximately $10 million.
However, it is expected that the investment will be recovered within the first two years of operation. Prior to the resumption of commercial service, the Malian section of the Dakar-Bamako line underwent several successful test trips.
The Bamako-Kayes line, originally completed in 1924 during French colonial rule, spans an impressive 1,286 kilometers, connecting Bamako to the Senegalese capital.
The reinstatement of the passenger train service holds significant promise for improved transportation and economic opportunities in Mali, providing citizens with a vital means of travel and trade.
