Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku dropped the hammer on a R3.2 billion budget designed to improve public transport, fight congestion, revive rail networks, and boost economic growth.
“Mobility is a basic human right and the lifeblood of the Western Cape economy. We are putting our money where our mouth is,” said Sileku.
Top of the list? Cape Town’s gridlocked roads. With the Mother City ranking 9th globally for congestion, and commuters wasting an average of 94 hours a year in traffic, it’s no surprise the department is racing to finalise its Provincial Land Transport Framework. And the public will get a say – Sileku promised an open-door policy for input.
In George, the already-popular Go George bus service will be expanded. The service currently pulls 21,000 passenger trips a day and reaches 75% of local households. “We’re connecting communities and creating jobs,” said Sileku.
On the rail front, there’s light at the end of the tunnel – literally. PRASA’s Khayelitsha line is back in testing, with Mitchells Plain set to follow. “This is a massive win for our people, especially those who’ve had no proper rail for five years,” said Sileku.
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Minibus taxis, the workhorses moving 1.5 million passengers daily, will get a boost with targeted support for training, conflict resolution and professionalisation. Even rural areas like Central Karoo are on the radar, with improved intertown links on the cards.
Freight isn’t being left behind either. Plans to revive the Overberg freight rail corridor could open new economic doors for towns like Caledon. There’s also R60 million for EV infrastructure, R113 million for the award-winning Integrated Transport Hub, and a cool R2 million to fund road safety ambassadors.
As Sileku wrapped it up: “This isn’t just about transport. It’s about building an economy that works for everyone, and getting our people moving safely and efficiently.”
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