Exploring South Africa's Rail Future with Deputy Director-General Ngwako Makaepea

Railways Africa Magazine

During the International Railway Safety Council Conference hosted by the Railway Safety Regulator, Ngwako Makaepea, the Deputy Director-General of Rail Transport at the Department of Transport, shared valuable insights during a "Coffee with the Editor" session. In the midst of Transport Month, the spotlight is firmly on the rail industry. Makaepea observes, "Transport stands as the heartbeat of the South African economy. Rail, as a pivotal mode of transport, not only facilitates the movement of people but also significantly fuels our economic engine." He underscores the industry's contribution by highlighting its role in transporting products from mines to ports, bolstering South Africa's presence in the export market. Our conversation spanned a range of pertinent topics: from the resurgence of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) network and the envisioned integration of public transport to the ambitions of Operation Vulindlela and the National Rail Policy. Additionally, we covered the intricacies of corridor concessions, the prospects of high-speed rail, and the ongoing Devolution strategy. Collectively, these initiatives and visions hint at a broader ambition – seamlessly connecting the people of South Africa through rail.