Mutare Railway Depot Breathes New Life Ahead of Sanganai Expo

By Elizabeth Kucherera

Mutare’s once-bustling railway station, which had lain silent for years, is stirring back to life as preparations intensify for the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo to be hosted in Manicaland.

On (Thursday) yesterday, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Felix Mhona, toured the Mutare Railway Depot, signaling renewed government commitment to reviving rail infrastructure in the eastern border city.

For Station Master Mr. Farai Zimunga, the minister’s visit was more than ceremonial—it was a sign of long-awaited progress.
“The railway last operated during the COVID-19 era,” he said with a smile. “This revival has lifted spirits among our workers who had almost given up hope.”

Inside the depot, the mood was noticeably brighter. An employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the reopening offers both emotional relief and economic opportunity.
“We are happy that the revival of this station will improve our earnings,” she said. “It has been tough, but now there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Another worker praised the government for staying true to its promises.
“It’s now more than five years since trains last operated here,” he explained. “The Second Republic has shown that it truly means to leave no place behind, just as the President’s mantra says.”

The revival is expected to create new jobs, ease transport challenges, and inject fresh energy into the city’s economy.

The ripple effect extends beyond railway employees. At the depot gates, vendors are equally optimistic.
“Before COVID-19, we used to earn enough to support our families because of the movement of goods and passengers,” said Mrs. Doreen Nzombe, a long-time vendor. “When trains stopped, we suffered greatly. Now I believe our daily needs will once again be met.”

For many in Mutare, the railway depot is more than just a transport hub—it is a lifeline. Its revival ahead of the Sanganai Expo symbolizes not only economic recovery but also resilience and renewed hope for a community that has endured years of hardship.

As the Expo approaches, the sound of trains returning to Mutare may soon become a powerful reminder of Zimbabwe’s drive to rebuild, reconnect, and ensure no region is left behind.