Port’s Association welcomes turning point for South African rail

The Multi-Modal Inland Port Association (MIPA) has welcomeed the release of Transnet’s Network Statement, a landmark development that opens up South Africa’s rail network to third party operators, at an affordable cost structure. Approved in December 2024 by the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, the Network Statement provides a clear framework for private sector participation in the rail sector, a move that is expected to transform freight logistics in the country.

The Network Statement outlines the terms and conditions for access to the national rail infrastructure, including access conditions, capacity allocation and pricing structures. This initiative is a key milestone in the implementation of the National Rail Policy White Paper and the Freight Logistics Roadmap, which aim to position rail as the backbone of South Africa’s transport system.

Creecy has described the Network Statement as a critical step towards achieving the government’s goal of moving 250 million tonnes of freight per annum by rail within the next five years. Warwick Lord, Chairman of MIPA, praised the announcement, describing it as massively positive for the freight industry. “The release of the Network Statement is a transformative moment for South Africa’s logistics sector,” he said.

“It provides the clarity and certainty needed for private investment in rail operations, which will help us achieve the government’s ambitious freight targets. This is a significant step forward in creating a more efficient, sustainable and competitive transport system.”

This article originally appeared on www.observer24.com.na. Read the full article here.