Another train derailed earlier this week, leaving the cash-strapped TransNamib counting the cost.
In a statement to the media, TransNamib’s spokesperson Abigail Raubenheimer said any derailment is an immense concern for the national rail service provider, especially in light of its current challenges in terms of capacity.
“It delays our progress in terms of the transformation strategy,” she stated after a derailment that occurred on Monday, about 50 kilometres outside Lüderitz, when two locomotives and one wagon derailed.
TransNamib is already in a challenging financial position due to its short-term cash flow position and limited rolling stock capacity.
According to a statement sent on Monday, the train was carrying a total of 22 wagons of manganese, with only one wagon derailing, causing minor spillage of the product.
“A total of three employees were on board and have sustained injuries. The employees were immediately taken for further treatment. TransNamib activated its emergency response plan when the incident occurred, and the area has been cordoned off. At this time, the cause of the derailment is unknown, and it is subject to further investigation,” said Raubenheimer.
TransNamib has halted the movement of trains on the line, as recovery and repairs are expected to take a few days before train service operations on the line can resume.
Accordingly, TransNamib’s financial position is expected to start improving from the end of the current financial year.
They have a period of two to three years before moving into profitable levels.
In efforts to bring TransNamib back on track to profitability, the company needs N$2.6 billion for their five-year business plan to reach break-even by 2023.