The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has unveiled details of its special luxury train service set to run between Harare and Mutare during the upcoming Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo.
The train, which has generated widespread public interest in recent days, will feature a range of coach options designed to enhance the passenger experience.
These include dining coaches fitted with seats and tables, sleeper coaches for travellers seeking comfort and relaxation, and a dance coach that has been trending on social media, offering a lively atmosphere for passengers to mix and mingle over drinks.
In addition to these unique features, the train will also provide a full bar and catering service, onboard WiFi, and modern, clean restrooms.
NRZ said it has been encouraged by the overwhelming feedback from the public, describing it as both constructive and inspiring. The parastatal said:
“As NRZ, we value all the feedback that has been coming through. We took time to go through a lot of it and obtained important lessons which will greatly inform how we will proceed beyond this glorious event, to provide service to the lovely people of Zimbabwe.
“We value every fact, and every opinion expressed by a passionate populace who want the best for their country.
“We are confident that these are the first steps to what promises to be a great undertaking going forward. Let us continue sharing ideas as we strive to make it happen.”
The NRZ had come under heavy criticism following the launch of its so-called “luxury” train service between Harare and Mutare ahead of the 2025 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo.
Instead of being celebrated as a showcase of modern rail travel, the refurbished coaches drew public scorn, with many dismissing them as a “disturbing downgrade” compared to services offered two decades ago.
Critics described the interior as dated and poorly executed, with one commentator remarking, “I used one in 2001, on a first-class cabin that looked far better than this disturbing rubbish.”
The cabins, furnished with 1980s-style sofas, were said to resemble a cluttered living room rather than a premium travel experience.
Social media users branded the design an “ugly display of sloth and corporate nonchalance.”
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono went further, warning that the use of unsecured household furniture posed serious safety risks, and that in the event of sudden braking or a collision, the fittings could become deadly hazards.
