Government Boosts PRASA with R19.2 Billion for Critical Signalling Upgrades

The additional funding is expected to support PRASA’s efforts in maximizing the potential of the 241 new trains delivered through the rolling stock renewal programme.

In a significant move to enhance South Africa's commuter rail services, the government has provisionally allocated an additional R19.2 billion over the medium term to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) for critical signalling upgrades.

Presenting the 2025 Budget Speech on Wednesday, Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana emphasized that PRASA is making steady progress in rebuilding infrastructure to provide affordable and efficient commuter rail services across the country.

"To sustain this progress, we have provisionally allocated an additional R19.2 billion over the medium term for critical signalling upgrades. This will enable commuters from areas like Mamelodi, Kwa-Mashu, Motherwell, and Khayelitsha to catch a train every 10 minutes, significantly reducing the financial burden of transport on low-income households," said the Minister in Parliament.

The additional funding is expected to support PRASA's efforts in maximizing the potential of the 241 new trains delivered through the rolling stock renewal programme. These new trains, combined with upgraded signalling systems, will improve efficiency, reliability, and safety for millions of daily commuters.

Despite these positive developments, Minister Godongwana acknowledged that PRASA still faces challenges in its procurement processes. To address these concerns, PRASA's management is implementing measures to strengthen its procurement framework.

"The management of the entity is already instituting measures to strengthen their procurement weaknesses. This includes getting support from the National Treasury to build capacity and mitigate risks and undertaking live audits for large procurement projects," Godongwana noted.

The government's investment in PRASA reflects its commitment to revitalizing South Africa's rail network, improving public transport, and enhancing economic mobility for citizens who rely on affordable commuting options.