The eThekwini Municipality has welcomed the successful hosting of the Transport Indaba held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) on Friday, 02 October 2026.
The Indaba brought together government leaders, transport experts, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to engage on solutions that will shape the future of transport and logistics in KwaZulu-Natal.
Delivering the opening address, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy highlighted the strategic importance of KwaZulu-Natal as South Africa’s primary gateway to sub-Saharan Africa. The Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy stated: “The province’s ports of Durban and Richards Bay handle millions of tons of cargo annually, connecting local producers with global markets and supporting key economic sectors including manufacturing, automotive exports and imports, mining, and agriculture.”
The province’s extensive transport network, including the N2 and N3 corridors, rail infrastructure, King Shaka International Airport, and Dube TradePort, continues to position KwaZulu-Natal as a leading logistics and trade hub.
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said the Transport Indaba represents a significant milestone in shaping the future of mobility and logistics in the province.
Siboniso Duma stated: “Through discussions on freight, aviation, and multimodal integration, our panellists are exploring resilient transport networks and strategic transport corridors that will strengthen KwaZulu-Natal’s economy and connectivity.”
Discussions at the Indaba focused on strengthening rail networks, aviation, maritime transport, road infrastructure, and innovative funding models needed to build and maintain transport infrastructure across the province.
One of the key topics under consideration is the movement of freight from road to rail. Stakeholders received updates from Transnet Rail Infrastructure and the National Department of Transport on rail reform initiatives and the proposed rolling stock Leasing Company (LeaseCo), aimed at modernising freight operations, attracting private investment, and expanding participation in rail services.
The shift from road to rail is expected to significantly reduce congestion and improve safety on major freight corridors such as the N3 and N2. A single heavy-haul coal train can transport between 13 000 and 17 000 tonnes of cargo, replacing approximately 300 to 425 trucks on the province’s roads.
Speaking at the event, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the Indaba provides a platform to develop practical solutions to transport and logistics challenges. Councillor Cyril Xaba stated: “Under the theme ‘The Gateway for Smart Mobility’, we have gathered to reaffirm our collective commitment to building an integrated, reliable, and dignified transport system. There is no better way to address transport and logistics challenges than by bringing together the brightest minds from across sectors. This Indaba must move us from dialogue to delivery.”
The Mayor further highlighted the municipality’s recent roadmap unveiling for GO!Durban, which aims to transform public transport and support a more connected, inclusive, and economically competitive city.
The eThekwini Municipality remains committed to working with all transport stakeholders to drive innovation, improve mobility, and strengthen the province’s position as a world-class logistics gateway.
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