By Staff Reporter,
Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) has confirmed a goods train derailment that occurred on the night of February 5, 2026, between Magoye and Mazabuka in Southern Province.
The derailment occurred at around 23:10 hours and involved train number 522, which was transporting coal from Livingstone to Ndola.
Seven coal wagons were affected, four of which capsized. Preliminary investigations indicate that the derailment was caused by acts of vandalism.
Confirming the incident, ZRL Manager Public Relations, Ms. Sombe Longwani-Ng’onga, said the safety of staff remained intact despite the damage caused.
“There were no fatalities or injuries recorded in this incident, and all crew members are safe. However, the derailment resulted in significant damage to railway infrastructure and four wagons were extensively damaged,” she said.
Ms. Longwani-Ng’onga added that recovery works are progressing.
“We have mobilized heavy-lifting equipment, including a railway breakdown crane, and our management and technical teams are on site working round the clock to rerail the affected wagons and restore operations as quickly as possible,” she said.
She further apologized to the public for the disruption caused.
“Zambia Railways Limited regrets any inconvenience caused and remains committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of our rail operations,” she said.
