WeeklySA_AdminSUSTAINABILITY: By prioritising rail, South Africa can align its transportation strategy with global efforts to combat climate change while simultaneously improving the quality of life for its citizens…
By Irene Charnley
AS South Africa prepares to host the G20 summit in Johannesburg later this year, the spotlight will undoubtedly fall on our nation’s economic challenges and opportunities.
The theme of the summit – Global Growth, Inclusivity and Sustainable Development – resonates deeply with South Africa’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its economy.
One transformative avenue for achieving these goals lies in the mobility of people, and the oft-overlooked power of commuter rail transport.
Efficient rail systems, like those supported by Gibela Rail’s modern train manufacturing initiatives, are more than just a means of transportation; they are engines of economic growth. Beyond their immediate function of moving people, commuter trains have a profound impact on job creation, skills development and local supplier opportunities.
By reducing travel costs for the labour forces of multiple sectors and enhancing productivity, these systems contribute significantly to household savings and national economic resilience.
The economic benefits of rail transport begin with job creation. Gibela Rail’s manufacturing facility in Nigel, Gauteng, is a prime example. Employing thousands of South Africans directly, the facility also stimulates job growth indirectly through partnerships with local suppliers and service providers.
This ripple effect extends beyond urban centres, creating opportunities in communities that are often underserved by traditional economic activities. For small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs), the rail sector presents a wealth of opportunities. From producing components for trains to providing maintenance services, these businesses are integral to the rail ecosystem.
The multiplier effect of such localised investment ensures that economic growth is inclusive and reaches the grassroots level. As the world moves towards advanced manufacturing and digitalisation, the demand for specialised skills is growing.
Gibela Rail has stepped up to this challenge by investing in comprehensive skills development programmes.
These initiatives range from technical apprenticeships to specialised training in rail technology, equipping South Africans with the expertise needed for long-term employment in the rail and broader engineering sectors. Skills development does not only benefit individuals; it enhances the competitiveness of the national economy.
By fostering a skilled workforce, South Africa can position itself as a hub for innovation and excellence in rail manufacturing, attracting further investment and opportunities. One of the most immediate benefits of an efficient rail system is the reduction in travel costs for workers. For millions of South Africans, commuting by private car or minibus taxi consumes a significant portion of their monthly income.
Reliable and affordable rail transport offers a cost-effective alternative, enabling families to allocate their hard-earned money to other priorities, such as food, education and savings.
Efficient rail systems also reduce the time spent commuting. For workers, this means more hours dedicated to productive activities and less time stuck in traffic. For businesses, it translates into a more reliable and punctual workforce, boosting overall productivity and economic output.
As evidenced by other countries across the continent and in Europe and the USA, the expansion of commuter rail networks has a profound impact on infrastructure development.
Train stations often become focal points for economic activity, spurring the development of retail outlets, housing projects and other services in surrounding areas. This creates new opportunities for entrepreneurship and investment, particularly in previously neglected regions.
Moreover, rail connectivity bridges the gap between urban and rural areas, enabling rural populations to access better job markets, educational institutions and healthcare services. This integration is a critical step toward achieving the inclusive economic growth envisioned by the G20 summit’s agenda. As global leaders prepare to gather in Johannesburg for the G20 summit, sustainability will be a central topic of discussion. Rail transport offers a sustainable solution to South Africa’s transportation needs.
Modern trains, such as those produced by Gibela Rail, are designed with energy efficiency in mind, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to road-based transport.
By prioritising rail, South Africa can align its transportation strategy with global efforts to combat climate change while simultaneously improving the quality of life for its citizens. This dual benefit of economic growth and environmental responsibility positions rail transport as a cornerstone of a sustainable future.
SThe upcoming G20 summit presents an opportunity for South Africa to showcase its commitment to growth, inclusivity, and sustainability. Commuter rail transport, with its far-reaching economic and social benefits, is a powerful tool for achieving these goals.
By investing in modern rail systems and leveraging initiatives like those spearheaded by Gibela Rail, South Africa can rebuild trust in public transport, create meaningful employment opportunities, and reduce the financial burden on commuters.
More importantly, it can set a global example of how transportation infrastructure can drive economic growth beyond the tracks.
As we welcome the world to Johannesburg, let us also look inward and commit to reimagining our public transport systems. The journey toward economic recovery and resilience begins with the simple yet transformative act of making public transport work for all.
• Charnley is Gibela Rail chairperson
