Cape Town Mayor Seeks President’s Support in Rail Devolution

by
1 min read
rail devolution cape town

Cape Town’s Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has invited President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish a joint working committee focused on the urgent devolution of passenger rail services. The initiative is in response to recent anti-devolution sentiments from the African National Congress (ANC).

Mayor Seeks Confirmation on National Cabinet-Approved White Paper

Mayor Hill-Lewis seeks President Ramaphosa’s reaffirmation of his dedication to devolving passenger rail in metros and requests a partnership with the City to expedite rail devolution. The Mayor emphasizes the importance of immediate action to prevent further delays in the devolution process, which could take years for the metro to execute.

Importance of Rail Devolution in Cape Town

The need for a dependable, safe, and affordable rail service in Cape Town is urgent, particularly for lower-income households. According to research, an efficient passenger rail service could save these households up to R932 million annually. Additionally, a functioning train system could sustain more than 51,000 jobs and contribute R11 billion to the local economy each year.

Cape Town’s Devolution Feasibility Study

Cape Town’s devolution feasibility study is well underway, demonstrating the city’s readiness to collaborate with the national government in reviving the collapsed passenger rail system. Presently, the system serves merely 2% of commuters. However, recent anti-devolution comments from the newly appointed Transport Minister and the ANC’s policy head for economic transformation have raised concerns.

Contradictory Comments on Devolution

Newly appointed Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has stated that no current plans exist to devolve rail for the City’s control. The Minister has also neglected to reply to a letter from Mayor Hill-Lewis, sent in March, requesting the formation of a joint working committee on devolution.

In January, outgoing Transport Minister Mbalula declined to create such a committee, asserting that neither the government nor he had been directed to initiate any devolution process. In the same month, the ANC’s policy head for Economic Transformation, Mmamoloko Kubayi, informed Sunday World that rail devolution was off the table for the ANC.

Mayor’s Commitment to Devolution

Regardless of the President’s reply, the Mayor remains committed to advocating for a proper passenger rail service in Cape Town. Given the critical need for an operational rail system in Cape Town, Mayor Hill-Lewis now seeks a commitment to devolution directly from President Ramaphosa.

Cabinet-Passed White Paper on National Rail Policy

In May 2022, the Cabinet passed the White Paper on National Rail Policy, promising to devolve rail to capable metros and develop a Rail Devolution Strategy in 2023. Since then, various senior political figures have contradicted this policy, causing indefinite delays in completing the devolution strategy.

Opposition to Rail Devolution

ANC’s policy head for Economic Transformation, Mmamoloko Kubayi, expressed her opposition to rail devolution, stating that strategic infrastructure and crucial economic activities cannot be handed over to metros. As rail is a fundamental component of goods and people’s movement, she argues that it cannot be delegated to city authorities.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

water conservation indigent residents
Previous Story

Addressing Water Leaks for Indigent Residents in a City

electricity supply interruption maintenance work
Next Story

Lavender Hill to Experience Scheduled Electricity Supply Interruption

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.