Like any seasoned traveller, Sidumo knows that the train, run by Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Mocambique, or Mozambican Ports and Railways, will start at least three hours late as passengers make a dash for last-minute bookings, grab luggage, give hugs and handshakes, take parcels and messages.

"It is a long journey from Maputo city to Gaza," remarked Sidumo, who was sheltering from the intense glare of the sun in the shade of a carport outside the station. "The journey takes almost a full day, but for me it is the cheapest form of transport to Chicualacuala, where I sell biscuits and drinks, and come back with fruits to sell in Maputo."

Article courtesy of IRIN

[5 Sep 2008 08:46]

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