The 25th edition of the Africa Rail Conference kicked off in Sandton, Johannesburg, drawing over 5,000 delegates and 150 speakers, including South Africa’s Transport Minister Barbara Creecy. The event comes as the country accelerates efforts to revitalize its rail sector and boost economic growth through infrastructure reforms.
Private Sector Participation to Expand Rail Freight
Minister Creecy highlighted significant progress in rail reform, including the December 2024 release of a Network Statement, which opens Transnet Freight Rail’s infrastructure to private operators. “This means, in addition to Transnet, other private sector players can now operate on the network,” she said. The move aims to increase freight volumes and address long-standing logistics bottlenecks stifling economic growth and job creation.
South Africa is also drafting a revised Rail Master Plan, incorporating insights from the conference. “This will give us a comprehensive vision for rail as the backbone of transport infrastructure,” Creecy added. The plan seeks to modernize a sector that has seen little expansion since the 1970s, apart from the Gautrain.
Industry Calls for Inclusive Growth
Michelangelo, CEO of the Africa Rail Industry Association, urged that the master plan must not exclude Transnet or local manufacturers. “Most of our members rely on Transnet’s network. Efficiency shouldn’t come at the cost of people—unemployment could worsen if we neglect the industry,” he warned.
BRT and Public Transport Under Review
The government is also reassessing bus rapid transit (BRT) systems and subsidy policies. Creecy expressed concern over underutilized infrastructure, citing inconsistent bus services despite heavy investments. “I’ve directed the transport department to review this policy to ensure affordable, reliable services,” she said.
Public-Private Partnerships Key to Growth
The minister emphasized private sector collaboration, urging investors to contribute ideas via an online platform before the extended deadline. A refined Rail Master Plan is expected later this year, targeting 250 million tons of freight on Transnet’s network by 2030.
As South Africa pushes for rail-driven economic revival, stakeholders await tangible reforms to transform the sector into an engine for growth.
