Barbara Creecy Highlights SOEs' Role in Youth Employment during Rail Line Inspection

The Minister discussed the ongoing efforts to enhance rail infrastructure safety, including replacing stolen copper cabling with aluminum to deter scrap theft.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy emphasized the critical role of State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) in providing economic opportunities for young people while addressing the media following her inspection of the Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line on Tuesday. She stated that these enterprises are vital for helping small businesses gain practical experience in the construction sector, enabling them to move up the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) register.

CIDB Registration Importance

Creecy explained that contractors wishing to work in the public sector must register with the CIDB, which categorizes and grades contractors based on financial and work capabilities. “To undertake significant construction projects, contractors must demonstrate their accreditation,” she stated, underscoring the historical importance of SOEs in supporting small enterprises to achieve this accreditation.

Enhancing Practical Experience for Engineers

A key focus of the Minister's address was the need to provide practical experience to young engineers. “One major reason for the high unemployment rate among graduates, particularly engineers, is the lack of practical training necessary to become independent professionals,” she noted. “We want to ensure that the incredible talent in our country is effectively utilized for critical infrastructure projects.”

Rail Line Upgrade and Community Benefits

The Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line upgrade, which cost approximately R400 million, aims to enhance access to affordable public transport for commuters, with ticket prices set at R14.50 and a monthly season ticket costing R169. The project has created 500 jobs in the local community and involved 34 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs). Additionally, 33 young engineers are actively participating in the recovery program, contributing to the project’s goals.

PRASA Recovery Programme and Future Goals

The Minister highlighted the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) recovery program, which focuses on restoring passenger rail services, improving safety and security, protecting assets, and executing a capital program. “Our vision is to establish rail as the backbone of our transport system, targeting 250 million tonnes of freight per annum and 600 million passenger trips by 2030,” Creecy stated. This initiative aims to create a sustainable public transport system and ensure a reliable revenue stream for PRASA to maintain rail infrastructure.

Addressing Transport Inequities

Creecy also pointed out the challenges faced by the working population since the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that 20% of workers now walk to work due to the unaffordability of alternative transport. “This situation is inconvenient, time-consuming, and hampers productivity,” she remarked, emphasizing the need to restore efficient public transport for commuters.

Safety Measures and Technological Innovations

The Minister discussed the ongoing efforts to enhance rail infrastructure safety, including replacing stolen copper cabling with aluminum to deter scrap theft. Security guards have been deployed to protect the rail lines, and innovative technologies, such as drones, will be introduced to monitor and detect tampering with the infrastructure. “These measures will significantly improve rail transport safety,” she concluded.

The Minister's inspection of the rail line was part of the department's flagship October Transport Month campaign, now in its 19th year, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of transport in South Africa’s development.