IN THE NEWS

SOUTH AFRICA’S RAIL REFORM: ENROUTE TO IMPLEMENTATION

SOUTH AFRICA’S RAIL REFORM: ENROUTE TO IMPLEMENTATION

South Africa’s rail sector is moving from diagnosis to delivery. The challenges are well documented: a shortage of operational trains, ageing infrastructure, widespread theft and vandalism and
operational inefficiencies, creating bottlenecks that spill into port. Shifting trade routes, geopolitical instability and environmental concerns add further complexity.

New AARTO challenges for business

New AARTO challenges for business

In an official media statement, the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) was postponed to 1 July 2026. According to the Department of Transport (DoT), the postponement is due to the inadequate state of readiness of several municipalities that are part of the initial implementation phase.

Audio Article

EDITOR BLOG

 

TRANSPORT MONTH – A CELEBRATION

October marks Transport Month in South Africa when we collectively reflect on the state of our Nation’s Mobility infrastructure.

Now is the time to reflect on how our transport system connects communities, drives the economy and relies on drivers, passengers and operators acting responsibly and safely.

Transport Month is not only a celebration, it is a reminder of the significant role transport systems play in shaping the South African economy and tourism sector.

Investment in the transport sector is aimed at stimulating development and creating jobs as part of the country’s Nine-Point plan. These investments will ensure that we will build integrated public transport networks throughout the country.

Most well-regulated countries of the world have a formal public transport system but here in South Africa our issues are far too complex, as public transport is increasingly losing market share against the informal taxi industry.

South Arica doesn’t lack ideas it lacks integrated ethical solutions. Our indispensable ailing transport infrastructure should be the veins through which our economy flows. Without a well-oiled transport infrastructure, the country stops.

The naamsa awards this year was very encouraging to note that the demand for road freight transport is alive and well and remains sustainable despite the challenges with the national infrastructure of roads and criminal elements pervading in the industry.

Major Commercial Vehicle Manufacturers such as Daimler are providing sponsorship for rural educational facilities, Isuzu providing strong support to SMMES’s from their nationwide dealer network, Volkswagen AMAROK participating in social activities with a partnership in “King of the Whip” sports event. GWM on the other hand in celebrating their 18 years in South Africa are partnering with Read Educational Trust to empower young readers to build a brighter future.

So the transport industry in South Africa, despite the tarnished reputation at times being blamed for the high accident rate, air pollution and damaging roads have a positive side by their social contribution to improving lives.

Pierre Sanson

Issue 10 – 2025

MAGAZINE

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