West Africa: Freight rail suspended between Abidjan and Ouagadougou on July 24

Event

Freight and cargo delivery delays between Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso are possible in the coming days following the partial washout of a railway embankment in the vicinity of Ouangolodougou, Savanes District, Cote d'Ivoire, and the subsequent temporary suspension of rail traffic on July 24. The International African Rail Transport Company (Sitarail) has indicated that crews are repairing the damage. It is not clear when the repair will be completed.

Context

The incident will likely have a short-term impact on trade between the two countries. The track provides an essential line for landlocked Burkina Faso's exports to the port of Abidjan in Cote d'Ivoire, specifically cotton and manganese, and imports of essential goods such as oil, cement, and fertilizer.

Advice

Confirm all freight shipments and delivery schedules. Seek alternative means of cargo transportation as necessary if disruptions persist.