Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has unveiled key priorities for South Africa’s transport sector, focusing on revitalizing freight and passenger rail, improving port efficiency, expanding aviation, and enhancing road safety.
Delivering her budget speech, Creecy emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment, private sector partnerships, and climate-conscious initiatives, despite economic constraints. The department’s total budget for the 2025/26 financial year stands at over R95 billion, with R66 billion allocated to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) for critical rail rehabilitation and signaling upgrades.
Rail and Port Reforms
Creecy highlighted ongoing reforms in Transnet, including the separation of freight and infrastructure operations to boost efficiency. She defended private sector involvement, citing successful models in BRICS nations like China and India.
“The infrastructure will remain state-owned, but we must increase competitiveness by allowing private operators on our rail network,” she said, addressing opposition concerns.
Road Maintenance and Licensing Backlogs
The minister acknowledged deteriorating road conditions, confirming the takeover of 3,000km of provincial roads for maintenance. On the driver’s license card backlog, she revealed that the old machine has been repaired while legal challenges delay a new procurement. A temporary agreement with the Government Printer aims to clear the backlog within 6-12 weeks.
Aviation Challenges
Creecy apologized for recent disruptions at OR Tambo International Airport due to security contract issues, assuring that the CEO was intervening. She also addressed air traffic navigation service (ATNS) delays, pledging a dedicated project office to resolve procedural backlogs.
Climate and Accountability
The speech underscored sustainable transport initiatives and stricter oversight of state entities to ensure efficient spending.
As South Africa grapples with transport inefficiencies, Creecy’s plans signal a push for modernization—but implementation remains the critical test.