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        <title>Engineering News | Rail</title>
        <description><![CDATA[Latest news on rail transport, including, aviation, logistics, materials handling, ports, shipping, public transport and roads.]]></description>
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            <title>TRIM tests market appetite for branch-line concessions</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/trim-tests-market-appetite-for-branch-line-concessions-2026-08-12</link>
            <description><![CDATA[A new market testing exercise has been initiated to assess interest in partnership opportunities across South Africa’s railway branch lines for freight and passenger trains. This so-called B-Network involves some 9 098 km of lines that connect to the core rail network, but which are characterised by low freight volumes and/or small-scale passenger or tourism services.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>RAILWAYS</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:50:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>727614</a_id>
        <updated>1786521617</updated>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>VAE SA delivers new rail crossing for Crossmoor Station in KwaZulu-Natal</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/vae-sa-delivers-new-rail-crossing-for-crossmoor-station-in-kwazulu-natal-2026-08-11</link>
            <description><![CDATA[A new diamond crossing has been installed at Crossmoor Station to improve reliability, safety and travel times for daily commuter passengers on State-owned the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA’s) KwaZulu‑Natal rail network. The crossing was designed and manufactured by steel and rail company voestalpine Railway Systems subsidiary voestalpine South Africa (VAE SA) at its Isando facility, in Gauteng, and built by construction company Maziya General Services.]]></description>
            <author>Schalk Burger</author>
            <category>RAIL TRANSPORT</category>
            <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:41:00 +0200</pubDate>
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        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Phillips questions need for middlemen as Transnet pushes for procurement reform</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/phillips-questions-need-for-middlemen-slams-practice-of-overcharging-transnet-2026-08-07</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Transnet group CEO Michelle Phillips says the State-owned rail, ports and pipeline logistics group is putting measures in place to ensure that it no longer over-pays for goods and services. Speaking at the SAPICS 2026 conference held in Cape Town last month, she said recent reforms within the entity included rolling out a catalogue of market-pricing, so that “if a part is R1.50, and you put in R1 500, the system will not allow you to buy that”.]]></description>
            <author>Irma Venter</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>726753</a_id>
        <updated>1785824978</updated>
        <published>1786053600</published>
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        <editor>Martin Zhuwakinyu</editor>
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            <title>DBSA, US DFC reach $786m financial close on Lobito Corridor railway project</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/dbsa-us-dfc-reach-786m-financial-close-on-lobito-corridor-railway-project-2026-08-04</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Development financial institutions the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) have reached financial close on $786-million in funding for the Lobito Corridor railway project. The project is a joint venture between infrastructure construction group Mota-Engil and metals logistics company Trafigura.]]></description>
            <author>Schalk Burger</author>
            <category>LOGISTICS CORRIDOR</category>
            <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:19:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>727153</a_id>
        <updated>1785937276</updated>
        <published>1785853140</published>
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        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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        <image_title>A rail yard on the Lobito Corridor railway project</image_title>
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            <title>Traxtion takes delivery of first locomotives under R1.8bn acquisition programme</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/traxtion-takes-delivery-of-first-locomotives-under-r18bn-acquisition-programme-2026-08-03</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Private railways company Traxtion reports that the first eight of 46 Wabtec C28 locomotives it is buying from KiwiRail in New Zealand for R1.8-billion arrived at the Port of Durban in early August. The shipment is the first of four planned shipments over the next two years.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>RAILWAYS</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:10:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>727043</a_id>
        <updated>1785766380</updated>
        <published>1785766200</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>TFR making progress on coal rail line improvements</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/tfr-making-progress-on-coal-rail-line-improvements-2026-07-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[South Africa has an abundance of coal reserves, but the coal mining sector’s competitiveness requires an efficient logistical network to move coal from mine to market. While the industry has faced significant challenges with regard to rail reliability, infrastructure security concerns and port constraints, performance in the sector is improving and collaboration is strengthening.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>COAL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 08:38:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>726373</a_id>
        <updated>1784886802</updated>
        <published>1784875080</published>
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        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Specialised skills development supports sector growth</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/specialised-skills-development-supports-sector-growth-2026-07-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[As rail networks expand and investment increases across Africa, demand for specialised rail skills will continue, including traditional technical roles, such as artisans, fitters, technicians and engineers, as well as emerging skills linked to digitalisation, automation and advanced maintenance technologies, says rail solutions company Traxtion. “As the sector enters a period of renewal and growth, developing the next generation of rail professionals will be essential to ensuring that Africa can support its rail ambitions,” Traxtion brand, communications and marketing manager Nnoni Mohlaphuli states.]]></description>
            <author>Lynne Davies</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
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        <updated>1784616419</updated>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>VISUALISED CAREERS Built to counter perceptions that rail is a male-only profession, Traxtion’s ‘Shadow a Women in Rail’ Programme gives learners first-hand experience by pairing them with female professionals across technical, engineering and corporate functions </image_title>
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            <title>Local partnerships key to strengthened rail sector </title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/local-partnerships-key-to-strengthened-rail-sector-2026-07-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Given South Africa’s unique topography and commodity-heavy economic profile, local partnerships are critical. The terrain, and the country’s need to transport high volumes of iron-ore and coal, place specific demands on rolling stock and products that are used on freight wagons and locomotives, says engineered bearings and industrial motion product supplier Timken South Africa MD Shaun Potgieter. “Our relationships with operators, [such as State-owned rail and port operator] Transnet, are critical to ensure we continually supply the most effective journal bearings, with the most durable sealing arrangement.”]]></description>
            <author>Lynne Davies</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
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        <updated>1784616419</updated>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>CALCULATING DESIGN LIFE With technology playing a key role in the quality of Timken’s products, its bearings can be calculated to minute details, ensuring that the bearing design life is calculated accordingly </image_title>
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            <title>Phillips questions need for middlemen, slams practice of overcharging Transnet</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/phillips-questions-need-for-middlemen-slams-practice-of-overcharging-transnet-2026-07-20</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Transnet group CEO Michelle Phillips says the State-owned rail, ports and pipeline logistics group is putting measures in place to ensure that it no longer over-pays for goods and services. Speaking at the SAPICS 2026 conference held in Cape Town this week, she said recent reforms within the entity included rolling out a catalogue of market-pricing, so that “if a part is R1.50, and you put in R1 500, the system will not allow you to buy that”.]]></description>
            <author>Irma Venter</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:02:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>726047</a_id>
        <updated>1784613976</updated>
        <published>1784552520</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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        <image_title>Michelle Phillips at SAPICS 2026</image_title>
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            <title>Innovatively expanding infrastructure to accommodate diverse value chains likely to boost ...</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/building-infrastructure-in-neighbouring-countries-could-boost-africas-economies-2026-07-17</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Uganda, in 2015, worked with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to build roads in the eastern DRC, which enabled goods manufactured in Uganda to be exported to this region, benefitting Uganda and the DRC. During the second day of the Manufacturing Indaba, in Johannesburg, on July 15, natural resource development organisation Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals CEO Humphrey Asiimwe cited this as an example of the benefits of African countries not focusing solely on their own needs, but also considering how they could support their neighbours and trade partners through the auspices of regional bodies.]]></description>
            <author>Schalk Burger</author>
            <category>REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:57:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>725915</a_id>
        <updated>1784293389</updated>
        <published>1784285820</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
        <has_video>0</has_video>
        <has_audio>0</has_audio>
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        <image_title>Africa should have infrastructure that connects its countries</image_title>
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            <title>Transnet board's term extended by six months</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/transnet-boards-term-extended-by-six-months-2026-07-14</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has extended the term of State-owned Transnet's board of directors by six months to January 11, 2027, or until the appointment process for the new board is finalised, whichever occurs first. The board's terms had previously been due to end on July 12.]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>PORTS &amp; RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:40:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>725655</a_id>
        <updated>1784037851</updated>
        <published>1784036400</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
        <has_video>0</has_video>
        <has_audio>0</has_audio>
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            <title>Congo taps Portugal’s Mota-Engil to revive copper rail link</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/congo-taps-portugals-mota-engil-to-revive-copper-rail-link-2026-07-13</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) approved a plan to partner with Portuguese construction company Mota-Engil SGPS on rehabilitating a key railway used for transporting copper and cobalt. The Congolese part of the Lobito Corridor will undergo a “complete rehabilitation” through a public-private partnership endorsed by Congo’s government on July 10, according to minutes of a cabinet meeting read out the same day on state television. Mota-Engil is already part of a consortium that operates a connecting rail line in neighbouring Angola that runs to the Atlantic Ocean coast, allowing for cross-border continuity.]]></description>
            <author>  Bloomberg</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:33:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>725548</a_id>
        <updated>1783946196</updated>
        <published>1783945980</published>
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        <editor>  Bloomberg</editor>
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            <title>Lobito Corridor railway project achieves $753m financial close</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/lobito-corridor-railway-project-achieves-753m-financial-close-2026-07-03</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Cross-border transport infrastructure project the Lobito Corridor railway project, in Angola, has achieved a successful financial close of $753-million, says infrastructure financing fund the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). The transaction, which follows key financing agreements signed late last year, marks a major milestone for regional integration and economic transformation in Africa.]]></description>
            <author>Schalk Burger</author>
            <category>RAIL FINANCING</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:26:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>725000</a_id>
        <updated>1783087487</updated>
        <published>1783085160</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
        <has_video>0</has_video>
        <has_audio>0</has_audio>
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            <title>GMA investigating Gautrain technical fault </title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/gma-investigating-gautrain-technical-fault-2026-06-26</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The Gautrain experienced a technical fault on the North-South line at about 17:00 on June 25, leading to a train being evacuated as a precautionary safety measure and resulting in delays to passenger journeys. Full train services resumed according to schedule at about 19:20 on the same day.]]></description>
            <author>Tasneem Bulbulia</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 16:02:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>724488</a_id>
        <updated>1782552085</updated>
        <published>1782482520</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Zimbabwe exploring minerals-backed deals with China to fund infrastructure, minister says</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/zimbabwe-exploring-minerals-backed-deals-with-china-to-fund-infrastructure-minister-says-2026-06-25</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Zimbabwe is considering using its vast natural resources to fund road and railway construction projects with China, finance minister Mthuli Ncube said on Wednesday. The southern African nation, Africa’s top lithium producer, has significant mineral resources. But years of economic mismanagement and political turmoil have left its infrastructure severely underdeveloped. The African Development Bank estimates Zimbabwe needs about $34-billion to modernise its transport and logistics networks.]]></description>
            <author>  Reuters</author>
            <category>INFRASTRUCTURE</category>
            <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:31:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>724276</a_id>
        <updated>1782373044</updated>
        <published>1782372660</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>  Reuters</editor>
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        <image_title>Zimbabwe Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube </image_title>
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            <title>Two entities shortlisted to bid to partner with Transnet on ‘LeaseCo’</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/two-entities-shortlisted-to-bid-to-partner-with-transnet-on-leaseco-2026-06-22</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Transnet has issued a formal request for proposals (RFP) to two shortlisted bidders that participated in an earlier request for qualification (RFQ) process relating to the creation of a railways rolling stock leasing entity, dubbed LeaseCo, as a public–private partnership. The identities of the two bidders were not immediately released, with Transnet confirming only that the shortlisted bidders had been selected from among the 14 respondents to the April RFQ.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>RAILWAYS</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:55:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>723996</a_id>
        <updated>1782195309</updated>
        <published>1782125700</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>Alstom-led consortium lands major contracts to modernise Egypt’s strategic rail corridors</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/alstom-led-consortium-lands-major-contracts-to-modernise-egypts-strategic-rail-corridors-2026-06-18</link>
            <description><![CDATA[A consortium led by multinational rail systems manufacturer Alstom has signed four landmark contracts with Egyptian National Railways to modernise Egypt’s strategic railway corridors, covering the 6th of October-Alexandria corridor and Belbes-10th of Ramadan line. This consortium also includes Egyptian construction companies Rowad Modern Engineering and Concrete Plus.]]></description>
            <author>Lumkile Nkomfe </author>
            <category>RAIL AND LOGISTICS</category>
            <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:42:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>723837</a_id>
        <updated>1781790991</updated>
        <published>1781790120</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Lobito railway receives first Congo shipment after flood repairs</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/lobito-railway-receives-first-congo-shipment-after-flood-repairs-2026-06-15</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) received its first copper shipment from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since reopening a flood-damaged section of the corridor, restoring traffic on a key export route for central African minerals.

The link between the port of Lobito and Huambo, closed for about two months because of severe flooding, was restored after emergency repairs, the railway operator said in a June 13 statement.]]></description>
            <author>  Bloomberg</author>
            <category>COPPER</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:56:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>723582</a_id>
        <updated>1781528638</updated>
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        <editor>  Bloomberg</editor>
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        <image_title>Lobito rolling stock</image_title>
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            <title>Gautrain marks 16 years of service</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/gautrain-marks-16-years-of-service-2026-06-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[As passenger rail company Gautrain marks 16 years of service since its launch on June 8, 2010, the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) highlights that, since inception, the rapid rail network has recorded more than 216-million passenger trips. Launched just days ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, GMA says Gautrain has grown from a landmark megaproject into a permanent feature of daily life, connecting people to work, education, business, leisure and economic opportunity.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:25:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>723112</a_id>
        <updated>1780929850</updated>
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        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Traxtion says R1.4bn equity raise positions it for yet more rail investments as market opens</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/traxtion-says-r14bn-equity-raise-positions-it-for-yet-more-rail-investments-as-market-opens-2026-06-03</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Independent railways operator Traxtion has concluded an $86-million (R1.4-billion) equity capital raise, which the company says has created the financial platform for yet further investments into a South African market that is beginning to open up to competition. The transaction involves STANLIB Infrastructure Investments and Standard Bank, which have acquired an undisclosed minority position in Traxtion, as well as Harith’s InfraCo and PAIDF2 funds, consolidating Harith’s long-standing shareholding in the company.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>RAILWAYS</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 09:05:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>722720</a_id>
        <updated>1780471334</updated>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>Daimler Truck Southern Africa Limited</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/daimler-truck-southern-africa-limited-2026-05-22</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Ahead of the 2026 RFA Convention, Daimler Truck Southern Africa Limited vice president sales and marketing Olaf Petersen discusses the trends reshaping South Africa’s road freight and logistics industry, how technologies are transforming efficiency, safety and cost management, the steps logistics companies are taking to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency and meet growing sustainability requirements, the key priorities industry and government should focus on and new products launches.]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721009</a_id>
        <updated>1778508427</updated>
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            <title>Banks, DFIs urged to back RBIDZ project development</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/banks-dfis-urged-to-back-rbidz-project-development-2026-05-18</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Industrial Zones Programme chief operations officer Stieneke Jensma discusses the need for development finance institutions and commercials banks to play a role in the development of projects within the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone during the RBIDZ’s Project Funding Pitch held in Johannesburg from May 7 to 8.
]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 16:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721512</a_id>
        <updated>1779170552</updated>
        <published>1779112800</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>RBIDZ outlines project pipeline at funding pitch</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/rbidz-outlines-project-pipeline-at-funding-pitch-2026-05-18</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone business development executive manager Simthembile Mapu discusses the RBIDZ’s project pipeline at its Project Funding Pitch held in Johannesburg from May 7 to 8.]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 15:57:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721511</a_id>
        <updated>1779170486</updated>
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            <title>SEZ support key to South Africa’s reindustrialisation drive</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/sez-support-key-to-south-africas-reindustrialisation-drive-2026-05-18</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Industrial Zones Programme senior technical advisor Mxolisi Matshamba discusses the critical role of support for SEZ’s in South Africa’s reindustrialisation programme at the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone’s Project Funding Pitch held in Johannesburg from May 7 to 8.
]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 15:54:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721510</a_id>
        <updated>1779170227</updated>
        <published>1779112440</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>Logistics reforms deliver results, but momentum must accelerate – Mavuso</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/logistics-reforms-deliver-results-but-momentum-must-accelerate-mavuso-2026-05-18</link>
            <description><![CDATA[As South Africa continues to grapple with the issue of unemployment, competitive logistics is required to drive economic growth and job creation. In her latest newsletter, Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) CEO Busi Mavuso describes the reform of the local logistics sector as critical to future economic success.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>ECONOMY</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 12:24:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721482</a_id>
        <updated>1779102685</updated>
        <published>1779099840</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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        <image_title>Busi Mavuso </image_title>
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            <title>TRIM signs rail access agreement with 11 private operators</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/trim-signs-rail-access-agreement-with-11-private-operators-2026-05-15</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Engineering News editor Terence Creamer discusses the significance of the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager's (TRIM's) signing of rail access agreements with 11 private train operating companies.]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 08:44:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721353</a_id>
        <updated>1779081844</updated>
        <published>1778827440</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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            <title>Grindrod secures rail access agreement, eyes 2027 start</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/grindrod-secures-rail-access-agreement-eyes-2027-start-2026-05-14</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Logistics group Grindrod has confirmed that it has signed a rail access agreement (RAA) with the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM), formally enabling its participation in South Africa’s Open Access Rail initiative. These agreements form part of South Africa’s rail reform journey, as it advances increased private sector participation, aimed at improving the efficiency, capacity and competitiveness of the national freight logistics system.]]></description>
            <author>Irma Venter</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 14:59:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721290</a_id>
        <updated>1778826738</updated>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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        <image_width>511</image_width>
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            <title>Eleven private train operators gear up for mainline entry after concluding access agreements</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/eleven-private-train-operators-gear-up-for-mainline-entry-after-concluding-access-agreements-2026-05-13</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The 11 private train operating companies (TOCs), which were last year allocated slots on South Africa’s mainline rail network, have now officially concluded rail access agreements with the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) and are gearing up to begin operations. At a ceremony in Sandton on May 13, TRIM confirmed that the TOCs were expected to inject an additional 24-million tonnes of freight capacity across the coal, manganese, container, fuel, and general freight segments. ]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>RAILWAYS</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 16:05:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721216</a_id>
        <updated>1778827271</updated>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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        <image_title>Representatives form the train operating companies hold up rail access certificates at a ceremony addressed by various Transnet executives, including CEO Michelle Phillips (seated in green). </image_title>
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            <title>Creecy highlights private prospects in freight logistics on eve of rail announcement</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/creecy-highlights-private-prospects-in-freight-logistics-on-eve-of-rail-announcement-2026-05-12</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has confirmed that major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector will be brought to market in the current financial year and that the first private train operating companies (TOCs) will begin operating from April 2027. Delivering the department’s R102-billion Budget Vote the day before the identities of the first 11 TOCs were due to be formally announced, Creecy said these private operators could be expected to move 24-million tons of cargo yearly once fully operational.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>TRANSPORT</category>
            <pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 11:10:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>721053</a_id>
        <updated>1778578042</updated>
        <published>1778577000</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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        <image_title>Transport Minister Barbara Creecy</image_title>
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            <title>Rail safety awards to take place in Oct as part of transport month – RSR</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/rail-safety-awards-to-take-place-in-oct-as-part-of-transport-month-rsr-2026-05-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) has announced that the Rail Industry Awards 2026 will take place on October 28 as part of South Africa’s Transport Month programme. Nominations for the awards officially open on June 1 and will close on July 31.]]></description>
            <author>Schalk Burger</author>
            <category>RAIL SAFETY</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 15:41:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720902</a_id>
        <updated>1778251297</updated>
        <published>1778247660</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Private investor’s role in logistics renewal spotlighted </title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/private-investors-role-in-logistics-renewal-spotlighted-2026-05-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[In an opinion piece, real estate investment trust Redefine Properties national asset manager and development head Johann Nell noted that the transport and shipping narratives in South Africa are centred on renewal and revitalisation. “In 2025, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced six new targets that would guide the department in its efforts to improve passenger, freight and logistics systems. These targets include carrying 250-million tonnes of freight on the Transnet network by 2029 and improving ship loading and unloading speeds to meet the international benchmark of 30 gross crane moves an hour.”]]></description>
            <author>Trent Roebeck</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>719868</a_id>
        <updated>1776869638</updated>
        <published>1778191200</published>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>JOHANN NELL 
Nell says that developing infrastructure and inland ports that host road and rail nodes, plays an important role in reforming logistics </image_title>
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            <title>Rail network modernisation contract awarded</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/rail-network-modernisation-contract-awarded-2026-05-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Having secured a contract to modernise the Craiova–Filiași section of the Craiova–Caransebeș railway in Romania, mobility solutions provider Alstom notes that the project will deploy European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2 signalling and electrification, enhancing overall capacity, energy efficiency and service reliability, thereby transforming rail travel for the region. The agreement was signed by the Asocierea TrackWorks consortium – which comprises Alstom and civil works company Terna Tourist Technical and Maritime Societe Anonyme – with the Romanian State rail infrastructure operator CFR SA.]]></description>
            <author>Trent Roebeck</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>719862</a_id>
        <updated>1776869667</updated>
        <published>1778191200</published>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>RAIL REVITALISATION
Alstom will modernise the Craiova-Filiasi section of the Craiova-Caransebes railway with ERTMS Level 2 signalling and electrification solutions</image_title>
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            <title>Rail corridor revival will bolster service, safety </title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/corridor-revival-promises-improved-transport-2026-05-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The revival of the Mitchells Plain rail corridor in the Western Cape – undertaken by South African passenger rail transport company Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), in collaboration with the City of Cape Town (CoCT) – is nearing completion, with rail infrastructure repair and upgrades already completed. The revival project includes key upgrades, such as the replacement and repair of rail tracks, overhead electrical infrastructure and substations, and a new signalling system, says PRASA marketing and communication head Zinobulali Mihi.]]></description>
            <author>Trent Roebeck</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>719885</a_id>
        <updated>1777898968</updated>
        <published>1778191200</published>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>MITCHELLS PLAIN CORRIDOR
The corridor’s infrastructure revival forms part of PRASA’s broader capital investment programme for network modernisation and corridor recovery</image_title>
        <image_width>511</image_width>
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        </item>
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            <title>Private sector to spur revitalisation</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/private-sector-aiming-to-spur-revitalisation-2026-05-08</link>
            <description><![CDATA[South Africa’s rail network infrastructure challenges continue to stifle economic competitiveness, sustainability and regional integration, and the network requires a complete revitalisation process through digitalisation and electrification, with private operators looking to spur this revival, says global technology leader ABB. In addressing challenges, such as ageing electrical infrastructure, high maintenance costs, unreliable services, safety concerns and energy inefficiencies, Technical Design & Promotion Specialist Electrification at ABB Renaldo Petersen says the company’s solutions can support electrification upgrades, improve reliability and allow for smarter asset management.]]></description>
            <author>Trent Roebeck</author>
            <category>Rail</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>719774</a_id>
        <updated>1778219135</updated>
        <published>1778191200</published>
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        <editor>Nadine James</editor>
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        <image_title>RAIL REVITALISATION
South Africa's rail network and associated infrastructure requires modernised electrification infrastructure to become optimally operational</image_title>
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            <title>Busa calls for quicker rail reform implementation as fuel prices impact on business </title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/busa-calls-for-quicker-rail-reform-implementation-as-fuel-prices-impact-on-business-2026-05-06</link>
            <description><![CDATA[The significant increase in fuel prices in April and May is no longer a short-term pricing shock that businesses can ride out, says Business Unity South Africa CEO Khulekani Mathe, adding that sustained increases in a core input like fuel translate directly into higher operating costs, weaker balance sheets and difficult decisions about employment, service levels and investment for businesses. In a media release, the organisation says the latest fuel price increase, driven by global oil market volatility, compounds an already difficult operating environment for firms, noting that industry data indicates that diesel can account for between 35% and 55% of total operating costs for road freight operators.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>FUEL</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:48:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720699</a_id>
        <updated>1778076897</updated>
        <published>1778075280</published>
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        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>€300m AFD loan to assist Transnet’s transition to low-carbon operating model</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/300m-afd-loan-to-assist-transnets-transition-to-low-carbon-operating-model-2026-05-04</link>
            <description><![CDATA[State-owned freight logistics group Transnet has signed a €300-million (R5.8-billion) with Agence française de développement (AFD) to support its transition to a low-carbon operating model. The loan is linked to South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, and fulfils France’s larger €1-billion commitment announced at COP26.]]></description>
            <author>Terence Creamer</author>
            <category>DEVELOPMENT FINANCE</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 15:45:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720479</a_id>
        <updated>1778231216</updated>
        <published>1777902300</published>
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        <editor>Creamer Media Reporter  </editor>
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        <image_title>French Ambassador to South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi David Martinon (left), with AFD’s regional director for Southern Africa Marie-Hélène Loison and Transnet CEO Michelle Phillips at the signing ceremony.</image_title>
        <image_width>511</image_width>
        <image_height>287</image_height>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title>TNPA appoints Abdool as CE</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/tnpa-appoints-abdool-as-ce-2026-04-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Mohammed Abdool has been appointed the CE of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), effective May 1. He brings over 29 years of professional experience in financial leadership, governance and strategic transformation within South Africa’s public sector. He has served in increasingly senior roles at Transnet, including CFO of TNPA for over 16 years and most recently as the acting CE of TNPA.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>CORPORATE</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 15:34:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720090</a_id>
        <updated>1777037791</updated>
        <published>1777037640</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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        <image_title>Mohammed Abdool </image_title>
        <image_width>511</image_width>
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            <title>Panellists discuss the progress made in rail reform and possible future actions</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/panellists-discuss-the-progress-made-in-rail-reform-and-possible-future-actions-2026-04-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[As South Africa’s freight system sits at a critical crossroads, with logistics costs estimated at between 11% and 12%, inefficiencies no longer just pose operational challenges, but create a direct constraint on economic growth. Additionally, these logistical challenges also place a significant burden on exports, manufacturing and overall economic competitiveness.]]></description>
            <author>Sabrina Jardim</author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:16:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720082</a_id>
        <updated>1777545116</updated>
        <published>1777032960</published>
        <expires>99999999999</expires>
        <editor>Chanel de Bruyn</editor>
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            <title>Govt sets ambitious goal in draft rail masterplan</title>
            <link>https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/govt-sets-ambitious-goal-in-draft-rail-masterplan-2026-04-24</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Engineering News editor Terence Creamer discusses the current state of South Africa's passenger and freight rail systems, as well as the ambitious goal set out in the Draft National Rail Master Plan – now out for public comment – to position rail as the backbone of South Africa's transport system by 2050.]]></description>
            <author>Creamer Media Reporter  </author>
            <category>RAIL</category>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:04:00 +0200</pubDate>
        <a_id>720026</a_id>
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