South Africa’s ageing passenger and freight transport network is set for a sweeping transformation, with government promising big investments to drive economic growth, restore confidence in public transport, and make the country’s roads safer for all.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy outlined the ambitious plan this week at the 43rd Annual Southern African Transport Conference in Pretoria — positioning transport modernisation as a national priority for an inclusive, competitive economy.

By Jarryd Sinovich

“An optimally functioning transport system is a cornerstone for achieving our national objectives of inclusive growth, social development, and building a capable state,” Creecy told delegates.

Six big goals are now on the table:

• Freight Rail Revival: South Africa aims to move 250 million tonnes of freight annually via the Transnet network by 2029 — shifting cargo back onto rail to ease road congestion and cut costs for industry.
• Port Efficiency Upgrade: Major ports must reach 30 gross crane moves per hour — the global benchmark — to stay competitive and fix longstanding bottlenecks.
• Passenger Rail Modernisation: The target is 600 million safe, reliable, and affordable commuter rail journeys every year by 2030, rebuilding trust in a service once relied on by millions.
• Aviation Expansion: Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is expected to handle 42 million passengers a year by 2029, helping to grow tourism, create jobs, and connect South Africa to the world.
• Airfreight Growth: 1.2 million tonnes of air cargo through ACSA’s network will strengthen South Africa’s role as a logistics hub for regional and global trade.
• Road Safety Push: Perhaps most critically, the plan aims to cut road fatalities by 45% by 2029 — in line with the UN’s global target to halve traffic deaths by 2030. Pedestrian deaths remain a major concern, making up nearly half of all fatalities.

Rail remains the backbone of the plan, with Creecy reaffirming that restoring commuter and freight rail must anchor South Africa’s push for cleaner, more efficient, and inclusive mobility.

From port cranes to commuter carriages, the road ahead is long — but the vision is clear: a modern, integrated transport system that works for every South African.