2024

News 2024

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

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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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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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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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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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GAUTRAIN SUCCEEDS IN ADVANCING WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN A SECTOR TRADITIONALLY DOMINATED BY MEN

08 August 2024

In a sector traditionally dominated by men, the Gautrain Project has consistently exceeded its socio-economic development (SED) obligations in terms of women in management positions, shares held by black women in the entities created for the project, and the employment of women.

The Gautrain Project was procured as a Public Private Partnership (PPP), the private partner, the Bombela Concession Company, is responsible for operating and maintaining the Gautrain system and obliged to commit and deliver on the SED strategy through a contractually sound and implementable approach. In 2023, the Gautrain Project reported that 30.77% black women held shares in Bombela Concession Company and Bombela Operating Company versus the obligated 7.5%, while 289 women were in management positions versus the obligated amount of 180, and the project employed 6 498 women versus the obligated amount of 4 107.

The Concessionaire is also contractually obligated to submit monthly SED reports to both the Gautrain Management Agency and the Independent Socio-Economic Monitor (ISEM) within 45 calendar days after the end of each contract month. The monthly SED report provides details on the achievements of the SED obligations, positive developments, areas of concern, challenges and interventions introduced.

“The Gautrain Project has succeeded in SED implementation because Government’s objectives with regards to SED were translated into measurable performance indicators so that these could be entrenched into contractual obligations, and the commitment of the Concessionaire could be fostered,” says Tshepo Kgobe, the Gautrain Management Agency CEO. The Agency is an entity of the Gauteng Provincial Government mandated to manage the implementation of the Gautrain Project and manages the relationship with the Gautrain Concessionaire.

“The South African government uses major infrastructure projects such the Gautrain as vehicles to enhance economic development, growth, and job creation, and to address past inequalities and imbalances, most notably in SED. In the planning stages of the Gautrain Project, government ensured that the SED strategy is contractually accepted by all parties, has measurable obligations agreed to and commensurate to the size and type of project, is monitored by an independent monitor, and provided for steps to be taken if the agreed obligations are not met,” said Kgobe.

Twenty-one SED elements have been identified and can be categorised as follows: Black equity participation; Procurement and sub-contracting; Local content; Participation by black equity partner; Employment equity; and Human resource development.

“The concessionaire has embraced the SED objectives and ensured credible achievements since the commencement of the operating period. This has set a benchmark which can be adopted by other infrastructure providers. Diversity, equity and inclusion requires active, intentional and ongoing efforts. Intentionally creating pathways for women to enter and thrive in male-dominated occupations and industries is imperative. Business benefits from a broader range of perspectives, experiences and opinions,” Kgobe concludes.

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PROGRAMME ADDRESSING FOOD INSECURITY IN DIEPSLOOT RECEIVES MUCH-NEEDED SUPPORT DURING MANDELA MONTH

26 July 2024

A Food Garden Programme in Diepsloot teaching children to grow their own food and feeding the community, received much-needed support to ensure year-round food security. Today, the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) and Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport supported the Garden to Kindergarten (G2K) programme with the installation of greenhouse tunnels, an irrigation system, a water pump station, and the planting of vegetables.

The outreach initiative formed part of marking Mandela Month and honouring Nelson Mandela's legacy of community service. In South Africa, the Nelson Mandela Foundation is focusing its 2024 Mandela Day work on three priority social justice areas: Early Childhood Development, Food Security and Just Cities.

Food insecurity remains a challenge for many South African families. In 2023, Statistics South Africa’s General Household Survey reported that 23,1% of households, nationally, considered their access to food as inadequate or severely inadequate. Good nutrition is crucial to healthy development in early childhood, meaning the negative effects of food insecurity can be particularly detrimental to young children.

Implemented at Afrika Tikkun’s Early Childhood Development Centre in Diepsloot, the G2K programme teaches children valuable gardening and agriculture concepts and skills through weekly sessions. The children learn about the importance of the environment, the lifecycle of plants, the connection between plants in the garden and food on their plates, and healthy eating in general. The thriving food garden feeds children at the Centre and the Diepsloot community at large.

GMA Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe, highlighted that Mandela Month is a powerful reminder that each of us holds the ability to make a difference. “As GMA, we remain committed to contributing to the social, economic, and environmental imperatives in Gauteng, while also uplifting vulnerable communities. Since the establishment of GMA’s Social Investment Programme eight years ago, we have 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. Our partnership with Africa Tikkun began in 2017, we are proud to be part of their journey and to assist in the upliftment of the most marginalised communities,” Kgobe concluded.

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MEC WELCOMES RETURN OF GAUTRAIN OPERATOR AND NUMSA BACK TO THE NEGOTIATING TABLE FOLLOWING WAGE DEADLOCK

09 July 2024

The Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has welcomed the decision by the Bombela Operating Company, and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) to go back to the negotiating table, following a deadlock in wage negotiations.

“We are hopeful that the decision to return to the negotiating table will result in adopting an approach which balances the interests of the workers against the long-term stability and sustainability of the Gautrain,” said Diale-Tlabela.

On Monday, 08 July 2024, Bombela Operating Company workers affiliated with NUMSA commenced an indefinite strike due to a wage dispute. Bombela Operating Company moved quickly to implement contingency plans to ensure Gautrain services operate according to schedule while union members are engaged in the industrial action.

"We, as government and as the owner of the Gautrain system, our plea is for the two parties is to find a speedy resolution to the impasse. We believe that such differences can only be resolved in talks, given that the end result of an industrial action usually has unpleasant consequences for all parties involved,” said Diale-Tlabela.

“To commuters, even though Gautrain services have not been disrupted by the strike, we appreciate that news of industrial action can justifiably make you feel anxious and uncertain about the reliability of the service. We commit to continuing our role in urging the two parties to find a speedy resolution to the wage dispute,” Diale-Tlabela concluded.

End
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Issued by the Gautrain Management Agency on behalf of the Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics.

Contact:

Lesiba Mpya
Spokesperson for the MEC for Transport and Logistics
lesiba.Mpya@gauteng.gov.za

Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za

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GAUTRAIN MARKS 14 YEARS OF OPERATIONS

08 June 2024

Fourteen years ago on the 8th of June 2010, the first Gautrain ride for commuters left Sandton Station for O.R. Tambo International Airport, just in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Since then, the Gautrain project has successfully completed approximately 192.8 million passenger trips.

“The idea of a high-speed rail network with an 80-kilometre route between the North, South, and East of the Gauteng Province, sounded like a pipe dream to many when the Gauteng Provincial Government announced it. Fourteen years later, 1500 staff are employed across operations and administration of the Gautrain project and we have managed to maintain an average of more than 90% availability and punctuality across all Gautrain services,” says Tshepo Kgobe, Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer.

The Gautrain’s transport network includes 10 stations that connect Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekurhuleni and O.R. Tambo International Airport, 96 rail cars (24 x4 Electric Multiple Units), a fleet of 125 heavy haul busses, and 29 midibuses. “In many ways, the Gautrain is a trailblazer in the South African rail and public transport sector. It is the first and only rapid rail network in the country, and it was the first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of its scale in South Africa when it was launched,” says Kgobe.

A new dawn beckons for the Gautrain. The current concession agreement between the Gauteng Provincial Government and the Bombela Concession Company comes to an end in 2026. The Gautrain Management Agency has already gone to market to invite bids for the next concessionaire. The new delivery partner will operate, maintain, modernise, innovate, and upgrade the current Gautrain system so that it continues to provide a safe and efficient public transport service.

“On the 14th anniversary of Gautrain’s launch, and in a year that South Africa marks 30 years of democracy and freedom, the Gautrain has proven to be more than just a transport project, it is playing a bigger role in Transforming Spaces, People and the Economy through Mobility. “The Gautrain has brought jobs, new skills, the easing of mobility for ordinary people, and major economic developments around stations,” says Kgobe.

It is estimated that R46 billion total GDP impact has been added to the Gauteng Provincial Government economy and a total of 245 000 jobs have been created due to property development induced by the Gautrain. Kgobe highlights that the Gautrain is a strategic national asset valued at R45 billion, and once the current concession expires at the end of its 19.5-year term, the costs of establishing this long-term asset will have been paid off, allowing the Post 2026 Gautrain Project to reap the economic benefits.

“With a shared vision and strong team effort, a dream of a world-class public transport system became a reality,” says Kgobe.

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GAUTRAIN SERVICE AVAILABLE FOR THE ANNUAL SOUTH AFRICAN AIRFORCE AIRSHOW

02 May 2024

Gautrain is once again a proud transport partner for the Annual South African Air Force (SAAF) Museum Air Show taking place at the Mobile Deployment Wing MDW (old Swartkop Air Force Base) on 04 May 2024 from 07:00 to 17:00.

Gautrain is offering a free midibus service for event ticket holders between Gautrain Centurion station and the Swartkop Air Force Base on the day of the event. The Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe said ‘’Gautrain would like to reposition itself as a mobility of choice in the province as it supports various key events in the province, be it work, fun or even entertainment.”

“This partnership seeks to promote the use of public transport to access events while we enable communities to access the air force base and museum that ordinarily will not have access to. As Gautrain we understand our role as that of connecting society with the future that is waiting for them and opportunities that lie ahead of them. It is on that basis that we have partnered with the South African Air Force to enable our communities to bring kids to the marvel of flying and the possibility of new careers.” Kgobe concluded.

The following terms and conditions apply:

• The midibus users must present proof of tickets before gaining access to the Gautrain midibus.

• The MDW/Swartkop Air Force Base gates open at 07:00 and the event is scheduled to end at 17:00.

• The first Gautrain midibus is scheduled to leave the Gautrain Centurion station at 06:00, and the midibuses will rotate between the station

and venue in 30-minute slots.

• The last midibus will leave the air force base at 18:00 to ensure that no passenger is left behind.

• Drop-off/pick up point for the Gautrain midibus service will be at the main entrance of the MDW/Swartkop Air Force Base.

• Standard Gautrain train and parking fares; rules and Ts and Cs apply.

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GAUTRAIN REAFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT TO FURTHER ENHANCE ITS SYSTEM TO ENSURE UNIVERSAL ACCESSIBILITY

26 April 2024

Freedom of mobility is a fundamental right, and on the eve of Freedom Day, the Gautrain reaffirms its commitment to further enhance its system to ensure universal accessibility.

Speaking at the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility in Ekurhuleni, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that “the Gautrain has had level boarding on its trains since its inception,” making embarking and disembarking quick and easy for people with disabilities. The two-day conference which runs until today (26 April 2024), is tackling barriers that persons with disabilities face in accessing transportation services.

According to the Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe, the Gautrain system was designed with accessibility at its heart. “There are wide entrance gates for people with mobility devices such as wheelchairs, lifts for easy access to the various platforms, and signage to indicate accessible seating on the train cars. Furthermore, every second bus has a wheelchair ramp and some midibuses are equipped with electronic wheelchair lifts. Hearing and sight-impaired passengers are provided for using colour contrasts, clear signage, high-quality lighting, and non-reflective surfaces. Service announcements are provided in audio as well as on visual information boards. Where applicable, tactile and audible guidance and warning systems are also in place,” says Kgobe.

To further enhance accessibility, the Gautrain will introduce a product specifically catering for people with disabilities. “We acknowledge that much more can be done, and will continue to engage organisations representing people with disabilities and listen to their suggestions on how we can make the Gautrain system more accessible,” said Kgobe. He added that the South African Guide-Dogs Association conducts mobility and orientation training on the Gautrain system for sight-impaired students using canes.

“We will continue to heed concerns or suggestions regarding issues of universal accessibility for people with disabilities. The Gautrain is an efficient, comfortable, and safe public transport service for all,” Kgobe concluded.

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TSHEPO KGOBE TAKES THE HELM AT GAUTRAIN MANAGEMENT AGENCY AS THE NEW CEO

01 February 2024

Gautrain Management Agency’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Tshepo Kgobe, has assumed his role with effect from today, 1 February 2024.

The Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, announced the appointment of Kgobe as the next CEO in September 2023. Kgobe served as Chief Operating Officer at the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) for the last four years. He succeeds William Dachs who stepped down at the end of his tenure on 31 January 2024.

Kgobe takes on the role of CEO at a time when the Agency has gone to market to invite bids for the next concessionaire to operate the Gautrain system, with the current contract with Bombela Concession Company coming to an end in 2026. The new delivery partner will operate, maintain, modernise, innovate, and upgrade the current Gautrain system so that it continues to provide a safe and efficient public transport service. Furthermore, the extension project to add 150-kilometre of rail network to the existing 80-kilometre Gautrain system is also taking shape. The route determination of Phase 1 of the proposed extensions from Marlboro Station to Little Falls Station has been finalised.

“The Gautrain Management Agency is a well-run entity that has over the past eleven years received clean audits and I have all the faith and trust that with Kgobe at the helm, the Agency will continue to scale higher levels of success. We wish him well in his new role and he has our full support in using the Gautrain as a vehicle for stimulating economic growth and job creation, promoting investment and new development,” said Diale-Tlabela.

Kgobe is an engineer with diverse technical expertise in infrastructure, energy, mining and the railway environment. He has extensive experience managing complex projects and operations. At the start of the Gautrain project, he was responsible for the engineering and project management of the trackwork subsystem.

“We want to maintain the high levels of operational efficiency and clean governance that have seen the Gautrain Management Agency record 11 consecutive clean audit outcomes. We also want to move the operations of the Gautrain Management Agency to be self-funding and self-sustaining by reducing the reliance on the fiscus,” said Kgobe.

According to Kgobe, the Agency’s multiple pronged strategy will enable it to become financially sustainable. “Firstly, we will look at property development in and around our stations, where we already have the rights to the land and want to partner with developers in developing that land. Gautrain Precincts will therefore become a hub for business, retail and social activities, supported by an integrated, accessible and affordable public transport system. Secondly, we are working on greening our operations and taking most of the station off the grid through solar power solutions and ensuring that most of our buses are powered by hydrogen. Furthermore, as we refurbish the trains post 2026, we will explore the possibility of developing them into hydrogen trains,” Kgobe explained.

“The Gautrain will become an even more integral part of people's daily lives and the mobility of choice in the province, not only for work, business and school, but also for large-scale social, sport and lifestyle events, and places of fun and entertainment. This is in line with the Agency’s purpose to transform spaces, people and the economy through mobility, Kgobe concluded.

The MEC also welcomed the new Gautrain Management Agency Board, whose term came into effect from 1 January 2024, chaired by Prof. Mfanelo Patrick Ntsobi.

End

To watch the new CEO’s full message on Gautrain’s future plans, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jopXXHnN0Kg

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