China, Tanzania, and Zambia have signed a memorandum of understanding to revitalize the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), aiming to enhance rail-sea transportation in East Africa. This agreement, witnessed by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, involves a proposed investment of $1 billion through a public-private partnership model. Originally built in the 1970s with Chinese support, the 1,860 km railway serves as a vital route for transporting copper from Zambia's mines to ports in Tanzania, bypassing logistical challenges in South Africa. The project is seen as a strategic move by China to solidify its influence in Africa while addressing Zambia's export needs. Additionally, the World Bank has approved $270 million to improve connectivity between the two nations, further supporting regional trade. This initiative marks the most significant upgrade to the railway since it was first constructed, reflecting China's ongoing commitment to infrastructure development in Africa.