DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 2 -- THE bilateral agreements between Tanzania and Angola could mark an important step towards reshaping Africas economic geography by linking its eastern and western transport networks.

Their significance lies in the potential to expand trade, attract investment and strengthen regional integration.

By combining a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with plans for a transcontinental railway corridor linking the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic, the two countries are addressing a persistent constraint on African commerce: Inadequate transport connections between markets.

Direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Luanda, if established with commercially viable schedules, would reduce travel time, facilitate business en...