Best buys for Africa: High Speed Train Network

Fast-track Analysis

In 2014, the African Union approved the plan for an African Integrated High-Speed Rail Network (AIHSRN). High speed trains of over 250 km/h are expected to be constructed but there is on-going debate on whether the costs will outweigh the benefits. In this study, a cost benefit analysis is undertaken where: all direct and indirect cost and benefits are outlined, monetized, future values discounted to present values and combined. A minimum and maximum BCR of 0.91 and 1.52 respectively are computed which signifies the importance of the project.