1896
The continuing Second Matebela War in Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), corresponding with the outbreak of rinderpest that will kill 90% of Southern African cattle, drastically reduces oxen needed to transport goods overland. Transport prices surge to £200 a ton (equal to £34,041 in 2023) over the 965 km from Mafeking to Bulawayo. A railroad between the towns will be built as a matter of urgency, and will open next year, in 1897.