Gauteng hosts round-table conference to improve freight & logistics in SA
The government of Africa's key economic hub, Gauteng is hosting a round table today with stakeholders in the private sector, to deliberate strategies and interventions to improve freight and logistics in the country. The sector has been marred with problems of late, caused by years lack of maintenance of key infrastructure, mismanagement and inefficiencies and more recently supply chain disruptions from Covid-19 as well as the riots in July. Joining CNBC Africa is Gauteng MEC for Public Transport and Roads Infrastructure, Jacob Mamabolo.
Tue, 23 Nov 2021 11:08:10 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- Addressing security and efficiency issues on key transportation corridors to enhance competitiveness in pricing and sustainability.
- Proposing alternative revenue models to replace the e-tolls system and support infrastructure development for freight and logistics.
- Maintaining government commitment to implementing plans despite political changes to drive economic growth and strengthen South Africa's position in international trade.
Gauteng, Africa's key economic hub, recently hosted a round table conference aimed at addressing the challenges facing the freight and logistics sector in South Africa. The conference brought together key stakeholders from the private sector to discuss strategies and interventions to improve the industry, which has been plagued by years of neglect, mismanagement, and more recently, disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest. Jacob Mamabolo, the MEC for Public Transport and Roads Infrastructure in Gauteng, shed light on the key issues affecting the sector and outlined the government's plan of action to revitalize it.
One of the primary concerns highlighted during the conference was the need to address security issues in the movement of goods, especially on key transportation corridors like the N3, N17, and routes connecting Gauteng to other provinces. Mamabolo emphasized the importance of enhancing competitiveness in pricing and efficiency to meet international trade standards. Additionally, the transition from road to rail transport was identified as a key strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve sustainability.
Another critical focus of the round table discussion was the future of the SunRail project and the controversial e-tolls system in Gauteng. Mamabolo reiterated the province's stance on scrapping the e-tolls, citing their burden on households and businesses. He proposed alternative revenue generation models that would outperform the current e-toll system and provide sustainable funding for infrastructure development.
Despite recent political shifts in key metros in the province, Mamabolo reassured stakeholders that the government remains committed to implementing its plans to enhance the freight and logistics sector. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration across political lines to drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen South Africa's position in regional and international trade.
The round table conference signaled a new chapter in Gauteng's efforts to transform its freight and logistics industry. By engaging with stakeholders and addressing longstanding challenges, the government aims to unlock the sector's potential and pave the way for sustainable growth and development. With a clear roadmap and determination to overcome obstacles, Gauteng is poised to lead the charge in revitalizing South Africa's transportation infrastructure.
