Kuimba Shiri

A few years ago, a steam enthusiast remarked that the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) was sitting on a gold mine with its steam trains.

He said with proper marketing, Rail Leisure could earn the organisation much needed revenue while contributing to   the country’s tourism industry through steam train excursion.

The man’s sentiments were proved true when a Valentine Day Sashay Steam train which ran on 18 February 2018 was oversubscribed.

The steam train was from Harare to Kintyre Siding from where passengers were transferred by bus to Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary on the shores of Lake Chivero.

At Kuimba Shiri passengers enjoyed an array of activities which included boat cruises, bird viewing, hose riding and fishing.

So successful was the run that some passengers were turned away because they could not fit on the consist  which included two economy class coaches, two sleeper coaches and three dining cars.

Eventually 248 adults and 84 children boarded the train.

NRZ Director (Operations) Sam Bhuza said the number of passengers overwhelmed the hosts who are not used to dealing with such a huge number of guests at any one time.

Kuimba Shiri management did what is unheard of in business.  The sanctuary told the NRZ that while they appreciated the business, future runs should be limited to a maximum of 250 people per trip.

Following the initial successful run, Kuimba Shiri is considering a long-term collaboration with the NRZ which will benefit both organisations.

Kuimba Shiri then went on to request for further runs to gauge the passenger volumes and see if the steam trains can be run on a monthly basis.

The second run organised on 25 March 2018 proved to be another success with 180 passengers paying to ride the train despite it being powered by a diesel locomotive.

The run was from Harare to Kintyre Siding and patrons had a wonderful time again at Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary.

Passenger Services Assistant Mr Wonder Mukuyu said there was a ready niche market for steam trains.

He also said with intensified publicity, steam excursions had the potential to capture all sections of society to promote domestic tourism.

NRZ steam train rides are popular especially among steam train enthusiasts who are prepared to pay top dollar to relapse into the past.

The NRZ is one of the few organisations in the world with operational steam engines. This puts Rail Leisure in a unique position to attract tourists with a nostalgia for the past.

Rail Leisure is now a known brand among international steam enthusiasts and the collaboration between NRZ and Kuimba Shiri will allow locals to enjoy their heritage.