The inaugural three-day National Transport Conference, held at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg from 16- 18 March, successfully brought together policymakers, private sector stakeholders, the taxi industry, rail operators, as well as representatives from other African countries and international transport experts.
The event officially opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the vital role of transport in fostering economic growth and generating business and employment opportunities.
“Transport infrastructure is critical if we are to unlock economic benefits and opportunities. They say if a nation wants to be rich it build a road,” said Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the taxi industry’s significant contribution to the KwaZulu Natal SANTACO has welcomed the extension of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s contract for another term. National Police Commissioner General Fanie Masemola confirmed that Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi will remain KZN provincial police commissioner for an additional fiveyear term. “I approved him to check whether he will serve further, and in terms of the law, I must also consult with the Premier, which I did,” Masemola revealed this at an ad hoc parliamentary committee recently. KZN SANTACO office manager Sifiso Shangase says that Mkhwananzi’s re-appointment will support stability and help police in tackling crime within the province. Shangase added that the taxi industry and General Mkhwananzi office maintains strong cooperation. KZN Taxi Industry Welcomes Mkhwanazi Extension as Police Commissioner
South African economy as majority run by black people calling it a “bright spark” in economic transformation and leading public transport of choice.
He challenged conference delegates and transport professionals to propose practical solutions that prioritise transportation and infrastructure as drivers of economic growth and opportunities.
He appealed to delegates to consider the establishment of the National Transport Council that can be a platform for transport experts and pollicy makers to work together in addressing the transport challenges in the country.
Leaders from South Africa National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and the National Taxi Alliance (NTA), including Abner Tsebe, Alpheus Mlalazii, and Mohau Masitsa, attended the transport national conference and urged the government to take concrete steps to address industry challenges, such as the unfair allocation of public transport subsidies.
