Transport Minister Barbara Creecy delivered the keynote address at the launch of PRASA’s Renewable Energy Project, Train Set 300, and the opening of Isipingo Mall in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. The event marked major milestones in rebuilding South Africa’s passenger rail network and promoting sustainable, people-centred transport development.
The Minister said these achievements reflect the government’s commitment to modernising rail transport as a reliable, efficient, and inclusive system that supports economic growth, job creation, and community upliftment.
PRASA’s Solar Renewable Energy Project, spearheaded by its subsidiary Intersite, involves the installation of solar systems at key stations and facilities across the country. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on the national grid, lower the carbon footprint, and ensure operational reliability during power disruptions. It also forms part of South Africa’s broader commitment to emissions reduction under the national energy transition plan.
Minister Creecy highlighted that PRASA’s renewable energy rollout demonstrates how public infrastructure can lead the green transition, combining environmental responsibility with operational innovation to deliver cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective transport services.
The unveiling of Train Set 300, known as Isitimela Sabantu (“The People’s Train”), marks the halfway point in PRASA’s plan to deliver 600 locally manufactured trains under the Rail Modernisation Programme. Built by Gibela in Ekurhuleni, these X’trapolis Mega trains are transforming passenger rail travel and supporting local industry, job creation, and skills development.
The Minister said each train represents South African ingenuity and opportunity, linking local manufacturing, empowerment, and economic participation.
The opening of Isipingo Mall further demonstrates PRASA’s secondary commercial mandate to revitalise urban areas and generate revenue through its property portfolio. The 7,259 m² retail centre created 271 construction jobs and will sustain more than 150 permanent jobs, serving both commuters and the surrounding community.
Minister Creecy emphasised that these achievements were made possible through strong partnerships between the Department of Transport, PRASA, Intersite, developers, local municipalities, and the private sector. Together, they reflect government’s commitment to integrated, sustainable, and inclusive transport infrastructure.
As South Africa celebrates Transport Month under the theme “Implementing an integrated, sustainable and safe transport system that promotes inclusive economic growth, job retention and creation, and social development,” the Minister said the progress in eThekwini exemplifies this vision in action.
She concluded that the ongoing rollout of new trains, renewable energy systems, and community-based developments represents a future of transport that is sustainable, inclusive, and transformative.
Train Set 300
- Represents the 300th locally built X’trapolis Mega train under PRASA’s Rail Modernisation Programme.
- Marks the halfway point to producing 600 trains by Gibela in Ekurhuleni.
- Supports black industrialists, youth, and women in the manufacturing sector.
- Symbolises local empowerment and innovation — “The People’s Train.”
- Enhances safety, reliability, and connectivity for daily commuters across South Africa.
