By: IOL

The South African government announces a series of key advances across economic, infrastructure, and local government sectors following the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday this week.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addresses the media on Friday in Pretoria, stressing the importance of the Cabinet’s decisions in propelling economic growth and service delivery reforms.

“Cabinet welcomes the announcement by the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager of new Train Operating Companies. This is a significant milestone in implementing South Africa’s Freight and Logistics Roadmap and Rail Policy,” Minister Ntshavheni says.

“The introduction of third-party access across 41 routes in six corridors improves rail utilisation and efficiency, reduces costs, and generates revenue that will be reinvested in modernising the rail network.”

The new companies are expected to carry an additional 20 million tonnes of freight per annum starting the 2026/27 financial year, adding to the government's target of moving 250 million tonnes of freight by rail annually by 2029.

On mining investments, she says, “Cabinet welcomes the $90 million Qala Shallows gold project by West Wits Mining in the Witwatersrand Basin — South Africa’s first new underground gold mine in 15 years. This investment confirms our country’s status as a preferred mining destination and will create jobs and develop skills, starting with production in 2026.”

“We also celebrate the strategic partnership between the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities and Standard Bank, which supports women’s economic empowerment through a $10 million investment in the African Women Impact Fund. This fund seeks to close the $42 billion funding gap faced by female entrepreneurs across Africa.”

She states that the Cabinet further receives an update on South Africa’s awarding of hosting rights for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, describing it as “a reaffirmation of South Africa’s international standing as a premier sports and entertainment venue, with preparations expected to spur infrastructure upgrades and tourism growth.”

Additionally, the Cabinet approves South Africa’s bid to host the Formula One Grand Prix in Kyalami from 2027 for three years. Supported entirely by the private sector, this contributes to job creation and boosts economic development.

In support of small business development, the Minister notes the Cabinet’s approval for public comment on the Incubation and Business Development Services Policy Framework, a key component of the National Integrated Small Enterprise Development Masterplan.

“Mentorship and business incubation are central to supporting early-stage enterprises, especially in townships and rural areas,” Ntshavheni explains.

On improving logistics, she says that the draft Air Freight Strategy is approved for public comment to address fragmented cargo corridors and enhance competition, benefiting exporters and importers through a more integrated air cargo network.

The government also continues to address governance challenges at the local level.

“Cabinet approves placing Ditsobotla Local Municipality in the North-West under administration to restore stability,” Ntshavheni confirms.

“A recovery plan will be led by the Departments of Cooperative Governance and Finance, with a joint task team specifically targeting criminal activities threatening effective service delivery.”

Additional Cabinet business includes approving two legislative bills aimed at judicial education reforms and efficient business licensing, and a series of senior government appointments across various departments and agencies.

“These strategic decisions and ongoing reforms exemplify our commitment to build an inclusive, resilient economy and professional public service that delivers tangible benefits to all South Africans,” reads the cabinet statement.