South Africa’s new Transport Minister commits to address sector issues

South Africa’s newly appointed Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy, has made a commitment to tackle the challenges plaguing the country's transport sector, which is currently not functioning as effectively as it should be. Speaking at the 42nd Southern African Transport Conference, Minister Creecy emphasized the need for upskilling and reskilling the transportation workforce to meet both current and future challenges. Joining the conversation was Victoria Sheehan, the Executive Director of the Transportation Research Board, who provided insights into the key areas that must be addressed to enhance the sector's efficiency and sustainability. She highlighted the importance of embracing new technologies, attracting talent, and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors in order to drive innovation and improve service delivery. The conference also delved into the critical issue of road safety, with discussions centering around adopting a safe systems approach to reduce fatalities and enhance emergency response measures. As South Africa aims to strengthen its transportation networks and bolster regional connectivity, stakeholders are exploring ways to leverage partnerships and infrastructure investments to drive economic growth. With a focus on technology, renewable energy, and interconnected road networks, the industry is looking towards a future that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and efficiency. The potential for electric vehicles and alternative fuels to transform the sector is being explored, with an emphasis on planning and collaboration to support their widespread adoption. Despite challenges such as regulatory frameworks and funding mechanisms, there is a shared commitment to driving positive change and fostering a more resilient and integrated transport ecosystem. As Minister Creecy leads efforts to reform the transport sector, stakeholders remain optimistic about the possibilities for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development in the region.