News 2024
GAUTRAIN MANAGEMENT AGENCY SCOOPS MOST INNOVATIVE KNOWLEDGE ENTERPRISE AWARD
05 November 2024
The Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) has scooped the prestigious 2024 Most Innovative Knowledge Enterprise (MIKE) South Africa Gold Award. The award recognises GMA’s exceptional efforts in harnessing its collective knowledge and expertise, leading to better decision-making, innovation, and competitive advantage.
The MIKE Award is one of the highest accolades in the Knowledge Management field and recognises organisations across the world that demonstrate excellence in knowledge management and innovative practices. As a Southern Africa Gold MIKE winner, GMA is eligible to compete for the Global MIKE Award against winners from other parts of the world. The Global MIKE Award ceremony will be hosted in Bangkok in March 2025.
Knowledge Management is described as the strategic process of organising, creating, using, and sharing collective knowledge and expertise within an organisation. Knowledge Management and innovation go hand in hand, and effective Knowledge Management at a team and organisational level can catalyse impactful innovations to reach new heights.
“In the fast changing business world of today, innovation is a necessity for survival, growth, and success. The MIKE Award is a source of great pride for GMA and speaks to our knowledge-sharing culture which is a catalyst for innovation, productivity, and a dynamic work environment,” says Tshepo Kgobe, Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer.
GMA’s primary mandate is to oversee the Gautrain Project, and act on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government in managing the relationship between the province and the concessionaire. Since the launch of the Gautrain rapid rail link project 14 years ago, the transit system has maintained high levels of operational efficiency. GMA has also matured into a Centre of Transport Excellence for the province and assists the Department of Roads and Transport with a number of transport and rail-related projects.
According to Kgobe, the culture of knowledge sharing is not only within the GMA but extends outside the Agency through key knowledge partnerships, particularly with the academic community. GMA has a collection of case studies highlighting exceptional learnings in various subject fields including construction, environment, communication, technology, governance, and finance. International Business Schools such as Bentley University use these case studies as learning and teaching material for students. Furthermore, Gautrain case studies have been published on Ivey Publishing, one of the world's leading producers of management case studies.
Locally, GMA has partnered with the University of Pretoria's Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) and the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) Business School with the aim to drive action and create impact through knowledge management and thought leadership in the transport sector. GIBS Business School has also recognised GMA’s excellence in knowledge management and innovation, the Agency is a nominee in the category, ‘Making business healthier: Trend Setter,’ the winner will be announced at the GIBS Client Award Dinner taking place on the 22 November 2024.
“At GMA, our knowledge is our gold. Effective Knowledge Management assists us to collaborate, access important information, solve problems, and drives business success,” Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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GAUTRAIN DRIVER'S LICENSE TESTING CENTRES TAKING THE HEADACHE OUT OF VEHICLE LICENSING
30 October 2024
Accessing vehicle licensing services is no longer a headache for Gauteng motorists, thanks to the game-changing Gautrain Driver’s Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs). Located at Gautrain Centurion and Midrand Stations, and at the Gautrain Management Agency’s office in Midrand (referred to as the Pilot Centre), the smart centres use advanced technology to streamline and refine the licensing experience, drastically reducing waiting times, and guaranteeing a quick, convenient service.
These smart cashless centres offer a comprehensive range of licensing services, including the renewal of a driver’s licence card and a professional driving permit, application for a temporary driver’s licence, and payment of traffic fines. At the Pilot Centre in Midrand, motorists can also renew their licence discs, a service offering that will be rolled out to other Gautrain DLTCs.
According to the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe, in September 2021 the Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) tasked GMA with establishing state-of-the-art licensing centres to help address the driver licence card renewal backlogs in Gauteng. “GMA delivered and launched the first smart DLTC at Midrand Station in June 2022. Since then, we have assisted over 170 000 customers,” says Kgobe. The smart DLTCs employ 44 youth, 70% are female. Work is underway to open a smart DLTC at Gautrain Sandton Station in 2025.
“Our streamlined processes and tech-driven solutions make licensing a breeze, something that was unheard of a few years ago. The smart DLTCs are staffed by experienced and dedicated professionals who embrace a culture of customer centricity and offer superior service quality. The smart DLTCs at Centurion and Midrand Stations are solar-powered and completely off the grid, ensuring minimal disruptions when there is a power outage,” Kgobe explains.
Kgobe highlights that in a sector historically plagued by corruption, fraud, maladministration, long waiting times, and tedious paperwork, the smart DLTCs offer motorists a smarter, more efficient way of licensing. “We have a no-nonsense approach to corruption,” he adds.
Recognising GMA’s success in rolling out smart DLTCs, GDRT appointed GMA to establish smart licensing centres closer to communities, particularly in Townships, Informal Settlements and Hostels (TISH). The first smart licensing centre in a TISH area was launched in Atteridgeville in March 2024. Additional TISH DLTCs will be launched in townships such as Protea Glen, Mamelodi, and Mohlakeng.
The smart centres are integrated into the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s administration system. To access services at the smart DLTCs, motorists must book an appointment through the National Administration Traffic Information System (NaTIS) online portal, walks-in are not allowed and cash payments are not accepted.
“Through cutting-edge technology, process optimisation, and a dedicated team of professionals, smart DLTCs consistently deliver exceptional customer service,” Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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MOTORISTS URGED TO MAKE A SHIFT FROM PRIVATE VEHICLES TO MORE SUSTAINABLE MODES OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT
11 October 2024
Today, the Gautrain and A Re Yeng (the Bus Rapid Transit system operating in the City of Tshwane), hosted an activation to encourage greater utilisation of public transport services over private vehicle use.
Motorists stuck in morning peak traffic were encouraged to use public transport as it is generally a more efficient, convenient, cost-effective, reliable, safer, and greener mode of transport. The activation took place at a busy traffic intersection in Tshwane, another activation is scheduled for 25 October 2024 in Johannesburg. The activations are an initiative of the Gautrain in partnership with Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems operating in the City of Tshwane and the City of Johannesburg as part of marking October Transport Month.
The negative effects of traffic congestion include increased travel time and driver stress, high fuel consumption, air and noise pollution, and the economic decline of cities. Whereas public transport systems do not only ferry a large number of passengers quickly and reliably, but also provide a cleaner, greener mode of transport that helps to reduce road congestion, harmful carbon dioxide emissions and noise pollution.
According to the Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe, the Agency commissioned an independent economic impact study in 2018 which revealed that a single trip on the Gautrain saves an average of 2.8 kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO2) per passenger when compared to a private car. The study further revealed that every monthly Gautrain commuter (someone who uses the train every working day to and from work for a month) between Johannesburg and Tshwane will save roughly 7 hours and around R1,300 per month in petrol and car maintenance costs. “As the Gautrain we remain committed to offering a world-class sustainable transport system and working closely with the likes of A Re Yeng and Rea Vaya to ensure a more integrated public transport network in the province,” said Kgobe.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of the Oversight Committee, Brenden Govender, emphasised that, "By choosing public transport, we save money and contribute to making Tshwane a cleaner, more sustainable city. Public transport offers an affordable, safe, and eco-friendly alternative to daily travel, and we are proud to see Tshwane residents embrace this shift." This was echoed by Pheko Letlonkane, Group Head for Road and Transport, who urged private vehicle users to consider switching to public transport, emphasising that doing so will save time and money and help reduce the city's carbon footprint. "Join us today in making Tshwane a greener, safer, and more connected city by choosing A Re Yeng," he said. He also encouraged commuters to continue supporting public transport and to inspire others to do the same, reminding them that they are part of a movement shaping a more sustainable future for Tshwane.
The Acting Executive Director for Transport in the City of Joburg, Benny Makgoga, said “Rea Vaya BRT represents a major point in how the City deals with traffic congestion, pollution and greenhouse gases emitted due to transportation in Johannesburg. Rea Vaya Phase 1A and B are cutting carbon emissions in Johannesburg by 40 000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents a year. This is according to the strict and scientific estimation carried out by international experts in the field (Grutter Consulting). By switching to Rea Vaya buses that run in their own uncongested corridors and consume far less fuel per person moved, overall greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.”
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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GAUTRAIN MANAGEMENT AGENCY RECORDS ITS 12TH CONSECUTIVE CLEAN AUDIT
04 October 2024
The Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) Board Chairperson, Professor Mfanelo Ntsobi has, on behalf of the board, congratulated the public entity for achieving its 12th consecutive clean audit outcome in the 2023/2024 financial year.
Most notably, the GMA achieved 100% of the outcome indicators in the 2023/24 financial year. This achievement was accomplished with a 0.88% under-spend of actual expenditure versus budget for the 2023/24 financial year.
“The audit outcome underscores GMA’s consistent and disciplined approach to financial management and good governance. It is a testament to GMA’s unwavering commitment to running a clean administration and managing public resources in a responsible and transparent manner. With 12 consecutive clean audits, GMA has proved that it is managing public funds responsibly,” Professor Ntsobi highlighted.
GMA’s primary mandate is to oversee the Gautrain Project, and act on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government in managing the relationship between the province and the concessionaire. In the period 2023/24, the Gautrain system has maintained high levels of operational efficiency. Train service operations achieved an average availability of 99,69% and punctuality of 98,22%.
In the 2023/2024 financial year, the transition between two GMA Boards and Chief Executive Officers was seamlessly managed. The term of office of the former Board ended on 31 December 2023, and the appointment of the new Board was effective from 01 January 2024. Tshepo Kgobe took over as Chief Executive Officer on 1 February 2024. The former Chief Executive Officer, William Dachs, stepped down at the end of his tenure on 31 January 2024.
“Achieving a clean audit is a collaborative effort, I want to thank the management team and staff at GMA for continuing to set new standards of excellence and innovation. We are also extremely grateful for the provincial leadership’s unwavering support,” Professor Ntsobi concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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THE GIFT OF CHOICE - GAUTRAIN HOSTS A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN
25 September 2024
Today, the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) hosted a unique shopping experience offering 150 children from disadvantaged communities the opportunity to shop and choose brand new clothing at Mr Price Mall of Africa.
This initiative forms part of GMA’s Social Investment Programme and aims to empower the beneficiaries with the power of choice, and offer the psychological boost and sense of dignity that comes from wearing appropriately sized and fitted brand new clothing. The children also received a hamper filled with essential grocery items and special treats.
The beneficiaries are from various parts of Gauteng including Alexandra township, Diepsloot, Soweto, and Orange Farm. They were identified through GMA’s Social Investment Programme partners; Afrika Tikkun, Tomorrow Trust, and Rays of Hope.
At the shopping experience, GMA staff members, the ‘GauServers,’ assisted the children to select outfits that complement their body types and personal style, and to stay within budget. The agency has a staff volunteer programme that encourages its employees to volunteer their time to supporting causes that the organisation supports through its Social Investment Programme. Since the establishment of GMA’s Social Investment Programme eight years ago, the Agency has supported 37 organisations providing programmes in the areas of education, community care, and early childhood development, and made a total investment of approximately R30,8 million.
“Nothing beats putting a smile on a child’s face, we hope this gesture will go a long way in making them feel seen, heard, and cherished,” said Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR THE INTEGRATED TRAIN SERVICE TO THE SOUTH AFRICA VS NEW ZEALAND GAME
29 August 2024
The scene is set for one of the most anticipated matches of the season as South Africa takes on New Zealand this coming Saturday, 31 August 2024, and all tracks lead to Emirates Airline Park Stadium-Ellis Park
The Passenger Rail Agency of South (PRASA) and the Gautrain are pleased to announce that all systems are go for the integrated train service, ensuring fans can travel safely and conveniently to and from the game.
The Gautrain and PRASA will be offering a seamless and integrated train service for the upcoming test match to ensure ease of movement and convenience for all rugby spectators attending the Rugby Championship Test Match. Fans can catch PRASA’s People’s Trains from Park Station to Ellis Park Station, which is situated at the heart of the stadium precinct.
With over 62 000 spectators expected at the game, The People’s Train has the capacity to carry 2 400 per train trip, making it the ideal mass carrier to the game. The PRASA train will run at 15-minute intervals from Park Station to Ellis Park Station from 10.30am until 9.30 pm.
The Gautrain has extended its evening service and will run the normal train schedule. The journey on the Metrorail service will be free for valid match ticketholders, while the standard Gautrain train and parking fares will apply.
Fans can catch the Gautrain from various Gautrain stations to Park Station and at Park Station proceed to the Metrorail platforms. Marshalls will be on standby to guide commuters to the PRASA Trains. The last PRASA Train departs Ellis Park Station at 21h30 and the last Gautrain train departs Park Station at 22h00 to all Gautrain Stations.
Both train services will integrate with other modes of transport including e-hailing and corporate busses that will be ferrying rugby fans to Park Station. For ease of mobility and efficiency, fans are encouraged to take the Gautrain from all the stations to Park Station, e-hail to Park Station, or park their private vehicles at Park Station. A R50 flat fee will apply for parked vehicles. For convenience and safety of fans, PRASA has made its head office adjacent to Park Station available for drop-off and pick-up for e-hailing services.
This special train service has been planned to accommodate the large number of fans expected to attend, providing an efficient and stress-free alternative to road travel. Fans are encouraged to take advantage of this service to avoid traffic congestion at the stadium or cellphone network interruption.
Safety and security remains our priority. To this end, the City of Joburg, SAPS, Gautrain and PRASA will provide additional security at the stations, inside the trains and in and around the stadium precinct for the security of match-goers.
“This initiative forms part of Gautrain’s efforts to be more inclusive by integrating with other modes of transport, and encouraging passengers to use the Gautrain to get to exciting sporting and lifestyle events such as this upcoming Bokke game. Fans can avoid road congestion by hopping on the Gautrain for a hassle-free, fast, comfortable and safe transport service to Park Station,” says Tshepo Kgobe, Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer.
“This is an exciting time for PRASA as we rebuild and restore commuter rail services across the country. To date, we have recovered 31 of the 40 corridors nationally. The Park Station to Germiston line, where the Ellis Park Station is located, is already operational. Using our internal staff, we have refurbished the station in time to welcome thousands of rugby fans on the day, says Hishaam Emeran, PRASA GCEO.
“Our role on Saturday demonstrates that we are more than just a commuter service for work and economic opportunities. We also play a vital role as a mass carrier, transporting people for leisure, entertainment, and sporting events. Our stations are strategically located near various iconic stadiums, and soon, we will be able to provide transport for other sporting codes," continues Emeran.
“We are proud of our partnership with various stakeholders, including stadium management and the City of Joburg, in revitalising the Ellis Park Stadium precinct, where rail complements other modes of transport, creating a vibrant urban culture in the inner city.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Andiswa Makanda
PRASA Spokesperson
andiswa.makanda@prasa.com
Note to Editors:
For security reasons, there will be restricted access at Park Station on the day for media. Members of the media wishing to cover the train experience are urged to send in their requests which must include names, time of arrival and duration. A media card must be presented on the day and an email showing approval to cover the event. The approval does not extend to the rugby game or stadium precinct. Media will have to contact SA rugby to access the stadium.
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