As we mark Transport Month in South Africa, it’s worth reflecting on how our transport systems shape not just our daily lives, but our entire landscape. At the Gauteng Tourism Authority, we know firsthand how the quality of our transport infrastructure directly impacts a visitor’s experience and shapes their perception of our country as a destination.
Transport goes far beyond only moving people between locations. It is the backbone of our economy. The numbers tell the story, according to the Department of Transport, the transport sector, along with storage and communication, contributes a substantial 9.3% to South Africa’s GDP, with transport alone accounting for 6.5%. This significant becomes clearer when we consider how transport costs flow through every aspect of our economy.
Consider what happens when fuel prices climb, everything else follows suit. A spike in petrol or diesel prices affects more than just your daily commute. It creates a chain reaction. Transport companies raise their rates, leading to higher costs for moving goods across the country. Soon enough, we see these increases in our grocery prices and, most importantly for tourism, in accommodation and tour operating costs.
For the tourism sector, reliable transport is essential. Whether international visitors are landing at OR Tambo International Airport or local tourists are exploring the country, their entire experience depends on how easily they can move around. In Gauteng, significant strides have been made. The Gautrain, which connects Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekurhuleni and OR Tambo International Airport through its 80km network, has grown into more than just a transport solution. It has become a tourist attraction itself.
The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, first implemented for the 2010 FIFA World Cup as Rea Vaya, has evolved into a vital part of the urban transport network. All three Gauteng metros now benefit from this system, offering tourists and locals a reliable way to explore the cities.
One aspect on our transport landscape that interests international visitors is our minibus taxi industry. While it faces certain challenges, these taxis move millions of South Africans daily and represent an authentic piece of our culture. Instead of ignoring this sector, we should consider how to better integrate it into our tourism offering. With proper regulation and support, the taxi industry could become a unique selling point for tourists who want to experience South African life as the locals do.
The future of transport in South Africa looks promising, particularly in the rail sector. PRASA’s partnership with Gibela to manufacture 600 modern and world-class trains. Called Isitimela Sabantu – the People’s Train – it marks a significant step forward. With 245 trains already manufactured right here, at their Gauteng plant, we’ve seeing great strides in public transport infrastructure.
Our airports, particularly OR Tambo International, which is Africa’s busiest airport, serve as crucial gateways to South Africa. Together with Lanseria, Wonderboom, Waterkloof, and Rand airports, they form a network that supports both domestic and international tourism and travel. The quality of these facilities often creates the visitor’s first and lasting impressions of South Africa and Gauteng.
Transport represents more than infrastructure. It creates connections. When we invest and create better transport systems, tourism growth, economic development, and subsequently, South Africa’s future as a premium travel destination can be realised. Every new rail station, BRT route, and every infrastructure improvement builds more than just better transport networks, it ups our competitiveness as a destination choice. We’re building a better tourism experience. As we continue to develop and integrate our transport systems, we’re not only moving people. We’re moving South Africa forward.
