Development agency funds regional intermodal system

CLIVE EMDON THE US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) in Johannesburg has funded several activities aimed at facilitating the development of rail and intermodal transport systems in the region. With an emphasis on private sector solutions, its business development manager Doug Shuster says: “We focus on rail and intermodal systems where there is a need for new technologies or management and operation practices. We look for a strong local project sponsor and then bring in a US company to perform a feasibility study or other technical assistance. “We work closely with the US Department of Commerce to open up opportunities for US exporters of appropriate technologies,” he says. “The rail sector is a good space for USTDA to operate,” says Shuster. “We have some good models in the US for engaging the private sector. For example, the US has a great deal of experience in concessioning of railway systems and leasing of wagons.”