What role does transport play in South Africa’s economic future? President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed this question at the inaugural National Transport Conference held at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg on March 16, 2026. He underscored that transport is vital to the economy and the people.
The conference, themed “Transport: The Driver for Growth, Job Creation, Inclusivity and Sustainability,” aimed to tackle pressing issues such as modernizing passenger rail systems and resolving port and freight bottlenecks. Ramaphosa stated, “An effective transport and logistics system is not merely about moving goods and people. It is about unlocking opportunity, restoring competitiveness, reducing inequality and enabling inclusive growth.”
Key stakeholders involved in the conference included Barbara Creecy, Panyaza Lesufi, Transnet, and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). The SANDF announced the deployment of 2,200 soldiers under Operation Prosper to combat crime, particularly targeting illegal mining and gangsterism in provinces like Gauteng and the Eastern Cape.
Transnet reported a revenue increase to R82 billion for 2024-2025, nearly 8 percent higher than the previous year. The agency aims to move 250 million tonnes of freight by rail by 2029, reflecting a 5.5 percent increase in freight moved by rail in the past financial year.
In terms of passenger transport, PRASA has revived 37 of 40 priority passenger rail corridors, with a goal of achieving 116 million passenger journeys this financial year and targeting 600 million trips by 2029. Ramaphosa emphasized the need for inclusivity, stating, “Transport must be as inclusive as possible. No one must be left behind.”
Road safety remains a significant concern, with over 12,000 fatalities on South African roads each year. The government aims to halve road deaths by 2030, with Ramaphosa affirming, “We aim to at least halve road deaths by 2030.”
The transport sector is integral to economic growth and development in South Africa, and the outcomes of this conference could shape future policies and initiatives. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific measures that will be implemented following the discussions.
