African Rail Industry Association optimistic about Creecy's private sector involvement plans
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy is making significant strides to boost private sector involvement in South Africa's rail network.
Two trains collided in Elubana, near Richards Bay, on 14 January 2024. Picture: Facebook/Transnet
John Maytham interviews Mesela Nhlapo, CEO of the African Rail Industry Association.
Listen below.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy is making significant strides to boost private sector involvement in South Africa's rail network.
She plans to establish a dedicated Private Sector Participation (PSP) unit within her department to lead this initiative.
The unit will be responsible for designing, negotiating, and contracting projects that encourage private sector investment in rail infrastructure.
This effort aims to enhance efficiency and expand rail services across the country.
"We find ourselves in a time of great opportunity."
- Mesela Nhlapo, CEO – African Rail Industry Association
Nhlapo remains optimistic about the future of the railway industry.
She emphasises the complexity inherent in the railway sector, underscoring the necessity for substantial financial investment and strategic partnerships to tackle its intricate challenges effectively.
Nhlapo stresses that building confidence in the private sector is paramount to ensure that potential investors feel secure about the safety and returns of their investments in railway projects.
"The public must be rest assured and the investors that we will find each other because this has to work."
- Mesela Nhlapo, CEO – African Rail Industry Association
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.