Here are top 10 African countries with the longest railway lines in 2024

Railway Coverage provides for vital tactical flexibility, serving both wartime and peacetime industries. In the event of Total War, railways are crucial to the mobilization of military elements, a recent report by Global Fire Power stated.

The network also provides needed access to strategic areas, the movement of very heavy equipment and supplies, and showcases the infrastructure maturity of a given nation.

Railways serve as vital lifelines for economies, facilitating the transportation of goods, people, and resources across vast distances. Railways also play a pivotal role in connecting rural and urban areas, promoting trade, and fostering economic growth.

While many African countries are investing heavily in modernising and expanding their rail infrastructure, some nations still boast impressive railway lengths.

Here are the top ten African countries with the longest railway lines in 2024.

1. South Africa: Known for its advanced railway system, South Africa boasts the most extensive rail network in Africa. It has 20,986km of rail lines and is ranked 12th globally.
Its railways connect major cities, ports, and mining regions, playing a crucial role in the country’s economy.

2. Sudan: With a vast geographical area, Sudan possesses a substantial railway network that primarily serves the transportation of agricultural products and minerals. It has 7,251km of rail lines and ranked 30th in the world.

3. Egypt: Egypt’s railway system is a historical and integral part of its transportation infrastructure. It connects major cities along the Nile River and facilitates both passenger and freight transport. It cut across 5,085km and ranked 37th globally.

4. Mozambique: Undergoing rapid development, Mozambique is investing heavily in its railway network to support industrialisation and economic growth. It currently boasts 4,787km and ranks 40 internationally.

5. Tanzania: Tanzania’s railway network is essential for connecting its vast landmass and facilitating trade with neighbouring countries. It cuts across 4,097km and ranks 44 globally.

6. Algeria: With a focus on connecting its northern coastal cities with the southern interior, Algeria’s railway network is crucial for economic development. The country has 4,020km of rail lines and is ranked 46 internationally.

7. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Despite facing challenges, the DRC possesses a significant railway network that has the potential to play a crucial role in its economic development. It has 4,007km of rail lines and is ranked 47 globally.

8. Kenya: Kenya’s railway network, including the modern Standard Gauge Railway, is undergoing expansion to improve connectivity and facilitate trade. Kenya’s rail lines cut across 3,819km and ranked 50 globally.

9. Nigeria: As the most populous African country, Nigeria is expanding its railway network to address transportation challenges and boost economic activities. Nigeria currently has 3,798km of rail lines and is ranked 51 internationally.

10. Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe also has 3,427km of rail lines and is ranked 56 in the world.