Minister Sileku welcomes public participation on Draft National Rail Master Plan, reiterates focus on reliable and affordable rail
Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, has welcomed the recent launch of the Draft National Rail Master Plan for public comment by the National Department of Transport and Minister Barbara Creecy. The Plan marks an important step in setting the long-term direction for the renewal, expansion, and modernisation of South Africa’s rail system.
“This is a defining moment for our rail network. The Draft National Rail Master Plan is now open for public input. I encourage residents, businesses, and transport organisations in the province to engage with the document and submit their views. The final plan must prioritise investments that drive economic growth and restore dignity to residents.”
The Draft Plan provides a framework to guide investment and implementation across freight and passenger rail over the coming decades, giving effect to the National Rail Policy approved in 2022. The Western Cape Mobility Department welcomes this as a step towards greater clarity and alignment across provinces and will engage in detail on the draft.
The ambition to position rail as the backbone of South Africa’s transport and logistics system is both necessary and timely and aligns with the Western Cape’s vision. This is particularly important in our province, where an efficient rail system is critical to supporting the export economy and connecting residents to economic opportunities, roles it has performed effectively in the past.
It is estimated that delivering on the Plan will require close to R2 trillion in public and private investment over the next 30 years. This level of investment could boost economic growth, support industries such as steel, cement, logistics, and engineering, and contribute to job creation and higher incomes.
Minister Sileku also welcomed the focus on building an integrated rail system that reduces transport costs, improves the speed and safety of passenger travel, and enables more reliable freight movement.
“These outcomes are critical. Current rail constraints limit the country’s ability to meet freight demand, affecting exports, economic growth, and jobs. At the same time, high transport costs and long commuting times place pressure on households, especially lower-income residents. A well-functioning rail system can lower costs, shorten travel times, and provide safer, more reliable journeys.”
In the Western Cape, several initiatives are already underway. The Department is engaging with Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) Western Cape to restore and improve passenger rail services and make rail a more reliable alternative to road transport. Work is also underway with Transnet to improve freight rail performance, recognising its importance for exports and economic growth. In addition, investigations into rapid rail and potential tourist rail services are informing future priorities.
The Department supports the Plan’s emphasis on inclusive and consultative planning. The intention to integrate passenger, freight, and high-speed rail, while promoting private-sector participation, is also welcomed. Given the scale of investment required, strong collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential for long-term delivery.
The Department will engage constructively during the public comment period to ensure the Plan reflects the needs and priorities of the province and delivers improved outcomes for residents and the economy. The commitment to ongoing engagement and continuous refinement of the Master Plan is also welcomed.
The Western Cape Government remains committed to working with national government and all stakeholders to realise a rail system that is reliable, efficient, and responsive to the needs of residents, making it easier and more affordable to access jobs, services, and opportunities across the province.
Stakeholders are encouraged to participate through the online platform and contribute to shaping the final Plan: https://railmasterplan.co.za/
Media Enquiries
Byron La Hoe
Acting Media Liaison Officer to Minister Isaac Sileku
Western Cape Mobility Department
Email: Byron.laHoe@westerncape.gov.za