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High speed (passenger) rail links between Gauteng and Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal, are not what the country needs right now.
well-maintained infrastructure, play by the rules and contribute fairly to the development of the state and business development. Conclusion The association notes that the general financial standing of the country is improving – which should not be scoffed at. However, it is time that the government acknowledges that it is not in the game of logistics (in this context) and
projects, or opportunities for further troughs for feeding of loyal cadres? The criminal prosecution system is teetering on the point of collapse. Look at the current commission of enquiry, service levels at local police stations, rates of prosecution through the courts – the cases need to get there first – and the rampant operations of various mafias within specific sectors and industries). With the sugar industry on the verge of
that this should be left with the private sector business experts in the field (as has been proven repeatedly).
collapse and media reports suggesting over 50 000 jobs are at risk, should this not be a higher priority than building a high- speed rail link? The logistics network needs direct investment – and the role of private players needs to be understood, welcomed and protected from state ravaging and misuse. Is that possible? Partnerships should be levered to ensure that compliance, fairness and sustainability are supported. The road freight sector is ravaged by those who choose not to follow the prescripts of the
The state is there to ensure that compliance with the rules (allowing all to participate fairly and freely in the sector) is observed. Now is the time to sort out
More importantly: asset disposals for small businesses will be exempted to a maximum of R15 million. SMMEs make up 80% of our association: this exemption is vital for their sustainability and growth.
dilapidated roads through the fuel levy - not just to refer to “infrastructure projects” at local and regional levels – or to note that SANRAL will maintain a defined set of roads. SANRAL cannot be responsible for all roads. Together with this approach, concession key rail links (just like toll-routes) and ensure
Labour Relations Act (LRA), the National Road Traffic Act (NRTA) and other key bits of legislation that create a fertile playing ground for those who wish to operate illegally. The symptoms are poorly maintained vehicles, undocumented foreign drivers, bad driving habits and corruption that is manifold. PPPs must focus on ensuring all have fair access to
the ends of these routes (whether ports or land borders) can move the volumes efficiently and effectively (with scope for growth). We are already losing volumes through Beitbridge and the Port of Durban to other ports in the African sub-continent due to the poor operation of our assets. n
30 MODERN MINING www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | April 2026
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