In a significant move to drive economic recovery and development, the National Department of Transport, in collaboration with the National Press Club, hosted a high-level roundtable discussion on Thursday, 09 October 2025 at the Unisa Graduate School of Leadership.
The event, held under the theme “Unlocking Transport Economies: Driving Growth and Development,” brought together the country’s top transport leaders to chart a course for a more efficient, affordable, and safe transport system.
The gathering was a key feature of the October Transport Month (OTM) campaign, emphasizing the critical role of transport as the backbone of the nation’s economy and social well-being.
“It is our responsibility to ensure the provision of efficient, affordable, accessible, safe, and reliable public transport,” Deputy Minister Hlengwa stated. He highlighted key priorities, including:
Attacking poverty and the high cost of living through an affordable public transport system.
Improving universal accessibility and safety at taxi ranks, train, and bus stations.
Reducing bureaucratic delays, such as the time it takes to renew a driving license.
Fixing road infrastructure and developing critical skills, from air traffic controllers to civil engineers.
Deputy Minister Hlengwa also proudly announced that the department had achieved a clean
audit for the first time in decades, signaling a new era of responsible financial management.
The keynote address was delivered by the Minister of Transport, Ms. Barbara Creecy with a
focus on a unified vision for the transport sector.
The Deputy Minister noted that in her short time in the role, Minister Creecy has “already
travelled the proverbial length and breadth of the sector, seeking out weaknesses and
bringing teams together to fix challenges.”
Minister Creecy provided a greater clarity on the department’s overarching vision and the
progress being made toward its realization, focusing on a cohesive strategy for the entire
transport ecosystem.
The roundtable featured a powerful lineup of CEOs from the country’s major transport
entities, who provided insights on the sub-themes of infrastructure development and public
transport integration.
The discussion underscored a collective drive to break down barriers, foster innovation, and
build a transport sector that propels South Africa toward inclusive economic growth.
This high-level engagement marks a pivotal step in aligning government policy with
operational execution, promising a renewed focus on a transport system that works for all.
