eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has urged decisive steps on the long-discussed Johannesburg–Durban high-speed rail. Speaking at the launch of the city’s Public Transport Information Centre, Xaba said the project has stalled since first being floated in 2010 under then-Transport Minister S’bu Ndebele. “It’s high time that we start moving this idea,” he said. He stressed that the Johannesburg–Durban high-speed rail must be actioned and integrated quickly. Additionally, he added that the Development Bank of Southern Africa is keen to help structure blended finance to get the line off the ground.
Cabinet Framework and SONA Signal
National momentum exists. President Cyril Ramaphosa told the 2024 State of the Nation Address that Cabinet, in November 2023, approved a framework for high-speed rail. This is focused initially on the Johannesburg–Durban corridor. Xaba argued that city leadership—alongside Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero—must drive the process. This will ensure it receives the urgency it deserves. The ANC in eThekwini has also backed acceleration. They call the Johannesburg–Durban high-speed rail a transformative project for growth, tourism and mobility.
Finance and Market Tailwinds
Improved market sentiment could help. The rand strengthened after South Africa’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force “grey list.” This shift, analysts say, improves the country’s reputation and lowers international financing costs for local institutions. On Friday, the rand traded around R17.25 to the dollar. By Monday, it hovered near R17.34, with R23.10 to the pound and R20.13 to the euro. South Africa’s benchmark 2035 bond yield eased 5 basis points to 8.88%. Meanwhile, Brent was slightly lower at $65.71 a barrel.
Why the Link Matters
Xaba says faster, reliable travel between the two economic hubs would boost tourism. It would also let workers reunite with families more easily on weekends. The ANC’s regional leadership adds that the line could stimulate trade. It could create jobs and enhance connectivity between KwaZulu-Natal and inland provinces. With a Cabinet-approved framework in place and local leaders pushing, the Johannesburg–Durban high-speed rail has fresh impetus. Now the test is turning plans into track.
