Developing Africa's transport infrastructure

Africa's transport sector has long been seen as a key area for development and growth, yet there is still a significant need for large-scale investment in transportation infrastructure across the continent. Reports from as recent as 2013 have highlighted the disparities in infrastructure quality, with countries like Kenya ranking behind South Africa, where only 14% of roads are paved. Dr. Andrew Shaw, Transport and Logistics Leader for PWC South Africa, and Jack Fatimova, CEO of Halting Management Agency, shed light on the challenges and opportunities in Africa's transport sector during a recent interview on CNBC Africa. The conversation touched on the need for improved transportation infrastructure, the role of public transport, and the economic impact of investment in transport projects. Dr. Shaw emphasized the importance of investing in public transport, especially in urban areas where congestion and capacity issues are prevalent. He pointed out that South Africa's transport infrastructure still outperforms many other African countries, with a World Bank logistics index score of 73%, comparable to other middle-income developed countries. However, he highlighted the need for increased investment in neighboring countries like Tanzania, Kenya, and the DRC, where infrastructure scores are much lower but economic growth potential is high. Dr. Shaw also noted the challenges of funding such projects, particularly in the current economic climate where government resources are limited. He underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in leveraging private sector funding for transport infrastructure development. Jack Fatimova, who has been involved with the heart train project for many years, shared insights into the success of the project in promoting public transport as a viable mode of transportation. He discussed plans for future expansions of the heart train network to alleviate road congestion and shift commuters towards rail travel. Fatimova highlighted the economic impact of the heart train project, citing job creation and infrastructure development around the train stations. He emphasized the potential of public transport projects like the heart train to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities. The interview also touched on the challenges of accessing capital for infrastructure development and the need for government funding for large-scale transport projects. Fatimova showcased the success of the heart train in shifting commuters from private cars to rail travel, highlighting the potential for similar projects to reduce congestion and promote sustainable transportation solutions. Dr. Shaw discussed the opportunities for investment in transport infrastructure in Southern Africa, particularly focusing on urbanization trends and growth corridors in countries like Tanzania and Kenya. He pointed out the Chinese investment in railway infrastructure in East Africa and the potential for port development in countries like Kenya. Dr. Shaw also highlighted the need for investment in airport infrastructure in South Africa as air travel becomes more prominent. The conversation delved into the potential for reviving unused railway lines in South Africa and optimizing existing infrastructure to meet growing transportation demands. Dr. Shaw mentioned the development of a green paper on rail transport that outlines the core functions of rail and its competitive edge over road transportation, particularly for freight. The interview concluded with a sense of optimism about the opportunities for growth and development in Africa's transport sector, underscored by the importance of strategic investment and collaboration between the public and private sectors.