Radebe calls for private sector involvement in rail

A CLEAR role must be established for private sector investment in the rail sector. It’s one of the continent’s biggest challenges and the most durable solution to its rail transport problems, Transport Minister Jeff Radebe told delegates at last week’s Union of African Railways conference in Vanderbijlpark. “But they should not be allowed to cherry-pick the best assets and operations. “We need to develop clear roles that will share risk within the public and private sector, with the private sector participating in capitalisation programmes, operational enhancements as well as service provision. “We should not be fixated purely on concessioning.” Transnet Freight Rail CEO Siyabonga Gama was in full agreement. “But we don’t believe we have yet found the necessary appeal to attract private sector investment in infrastructure,” he told FTW. Radebe called on the industry to step up the pace of efficiency and performance. “A sound railway system is important for economic growth and integration of the continent and the challenge is how to adjust the rail infrastructure system to respond to and integrate with emerging transport systems in the world. “Africa needs to take stock of its achievements and adapt itself to the changing world or risk marginalisation.” Among the most pressing challenges, in his view, is mobilising adequate resources, ensuring long-term sustainability and promoting inter-country cooperation. “The key words are investment, partnership and improved performance.”