Michelle Phillips, Chief Executive of South Africa’s state-owned freight and logistics company Transnet, announced a R127 billion ($7.3 billion) investment over five years to modernise rail lines and upgrade ports. The plan aims to address ageing infrastructure that has constrained coal and iron ore exports.
Transnet spent R24 billion on infrastructure last year and has budgeted R25 billion for the current year. It will seek partnerships and funding from private investors, including projects at the Richards Bay terminal and Durban’s Pier 2 concession.
The investment will improve freight reliability, expand port capacity, and attract private-sector participation. Maintenance shutdowns and equipment upgrades are expected to enhance export performance and efficiency across South Africa’s logistics network.
