The Impact of Rail Transport on Transport and Logistics Efficiency in Zimbabwe: A Network Theory Perspective
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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53555/et.v4i1.2576Keywords:
rail transport, rail infrastructure, transport logics, network theoryAbstract
This study examined the extent to which rail transport influences the efficiency of transport and logistics in Zimbabwe. Grounded in network theory, the research adopted a pragmatic philosophy combining positivist and interpretivist approaches. A quantitative explanatory design was used to test the relationship between rail transport operations as the independent variable and transport /logistics efficiency as the dependent variable. Primary data were collected from 180 valid questionnaire respondents and 8 key informant interviews, supplemented by secondary document analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSSv21, including descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and hypothesis testing, while interview data were thematically analysed. The study found that rail transport positively and significantly impacts transport and logistics efficiency. Key findings include deteriorating rail infrastructure, critical modernisation needs such as signaling, rolling stock, track rehabilitation, operational challenges such as regulatory bottlenecks, poor service reliability, comparative cost and energy advantages of rail over road, and positive socio-economic implications for local communities and businesses. The study concludes and recommends that strategic investment in rail transport, supported by enabling policies, is essential for improving Zimbabwe’s logistics performance.
Keywords: rail transport, rail infrastructure, transport logics, network theory
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