London, UK – In a move to foster sustainable economic growth across Southern Africa, the UK Government has announced new initiatives to support the development of the region’s rail infrastructure and services.
Sharing Crossrail Expertise
British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson, revealed that UK funding will enable Crossrail International to provide technical assistance to the Southern African Railway Association (SARA).
This support will help SARA implement regional policies, regulatory reforms, and facilitate cohesive network planning and investment under their long-term masterplan.
“We are excited to be part of the effort supporting sustainable development in Southern Africa, fostering collaboration between the UK and SARA to promote regional growth through rail infrastructure development,” said Phillipson.
Boosting Transport for Local Metros
In addition, Transport for London (TfL) – which facilitates 3.3 billion journeys annually – will offer technical advice to South African local governments.
The aim is to enhance passenger rail services in major metros and share TfL’s experience of delivering decentralised rail operations to increase public transport access and affordability.
Benchmarking the SADC Rail Industry
Underpinning these initiatives is a research project to benchmark the Southern African Development Community (SADC) rail industry.
This will focus on capacity enhancement and information policy reform and management.
Main Details:
- £19 billion Crossrail project in UK to provide technical assistance
- Supporting SARA’s implementation of regional policies and reforms
- Enabling cohesive network planning and sustainable investment
- Developing business case for Railway Centre of Excellence
- TfL to advise on improving passenger rail in South African metros
- Research to benchmark SADC rail industry for capacity and policy
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
Executive Director of SARA, Babe Botana, welcomed the progress made through the Joint Steering Committee and acknowledged the flagship projects intended to implement the SADC Railway Regional Strategic Plan 2023-2027.
“This relationship demonstrates the power of international partnerships, in strengthening the collective capabilities of our organisations to drive our regional railway agenda,” said Botana.
The UK’s commitment to supporting sustainable rail development in Southern Africa underscores its continued efforts to foster economic cooperation and regional integration across the continent.
For more information, visit the UK Government website at www.gov.uk/southern-africa-rail-support.
Sources: THX News, British Consulate-General Cape Town, British High Commission Pretoria & Department for Business and Trade South Africa.
