News 2026

GAUTRAIN MARKS END OF AN ERA WHILE ENSURING SEAMLESS CONTINUITY
27 March 2026

Today, the Gautrain marks a significant milestone as the system’s 19½-year concession agreement with the Bombela Concession Company (BCC) officially concludes, closing an important chapter in one of South Africa’s largest and most successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.

The Gautrain will continue operating under the PPP model going forward, ensuring stability, continuity and sustained private-sector participation.

A new operational phase begins tomorrow (28 March 2026), with the Bombela Operating Company (BOC) continuing to manage the Gautrain under a contractual holdover arrangement for up to six months.

During this period, final negotiations with the preferred bidder, who will operate, maintain, refurbish, upgrade, and modernise the Gautrain system for the next 15 years, will be completed, and a new concessionaire will be officially appointed.

Passengers can be fully assured that Gautrain services will continue without interruption, maintaining the high standards, reliability, and efficiency that have defined the system since its inception.

Since 2010, the system has contributed R46 billion in economic value to Gauteng. For every rand invested, R1,72 is returned to the province. Some 245 000 jobs have been created through property development alone around its stations, and approximately 59% of all major office development in the province now clusters around Gautrain nodes. These are not coincidences of geography. They are the direct result of what reliable, high-frequency rail does to the value of land and the decisions of investors.

Looking ahead, the next phase under a new concessionaire will prioritise:

•Enhancing the passenger experience through modernised technology and improved amenities.

•Transforming stations and surrounding precincts into integrated hubs for business, retail, and social activities through transit-oriented development.

•Introducing more flexible and dynamic pricing to improve affordability and accessibility.


The conclusion of the BCC concession marks the end of an era and a proud moment for Gautrain,” said Tshepo Kgobe, CEO of the Gautrain Management Agency. “As we enter this transitional phase, our priority remains to deliver uninterrupted, world-class service while preparing for a seamless handover to the next concessionaire.”

The Gautrain remains a shining example of how long-term Public-Private Partnerships can deliver world-class infrastructure and services, setting the benchmark for PPP success in South Africa.



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Contact:

Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za

Notes to Editors:

•The Gautrain Rapid Rail Link was developed as a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) in terms of Treasury Regulation 16 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

•The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is the public partner and primary promoter of the project.

•The private partner, Bombela Concession Company (Pty) Ltd (BCC), held a 19½-year concession covering the design, construction, partial financing, operation, and maintenance of the Gautrain system.

•The concession agreement between GPG and BCC ends on 27 March 2026.

•A preferred bidder has been identified for the new concession agreement. During the negotiation period, the Gautrain Management Agency has triggered a contractual holdover arrangement as of 28 March 2026, that will allow the current operator, Bombela Operating Company (BOC), to continue operating the Gautrain system as per the existing Concession Agreement which makes provision for a holdover period of six months, thereby ensuring uninterrupted service to passengers.

•The Gautrain system will continue to operate under the PPP model as it advances into the next phase of its operational journey.

•The Gautrain is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s largest and most successful PPP projects, serving as a model for public–private collaboration in transport infrastructure.


Follow Gautrain on:

•X (formerly known as Twitter) - @TheGautrain
•Facebook – www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website – www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693


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GAUTRAIN TO CONTINUE OPERATING UNDER PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP MODEL BEYOND 2026
04 March 2026

The Gautrain system will continue to operate under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model as it advances into the next phase of its operational journey.


As the current concession agreement approaches its conclusion, the process of appointing a new private partner to operate, maintain, refurbish, upgrade and modernise the Gautrain system for the next 15 years is at an advanced stage of negotiation.


The Gautrain Rapid Rail Link was developed and implemented as a PPP in terms of Treasury Regulation 16 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is the public partner and primary promoter of the project. The private partner, Bombela Concession Company (Pty) Ltd (BCC), currently holds a 19½-year concession for the design, construction, partial financing, operation and maintenance of the Gautrain system.


The concession agreement between the GPG and BCC will come to an end on 27 March 2026. As one of South Africa’s largest and most successful PPP projects, the Gautrain will continue operating under the PPP model beyond this date, ensuring stability, continuity and sustained private-sector participation.


By 27 March 2026, the costs associated with establishing the Gautrain project will have been fully paid off. This important step positions the Post-2026 Gautrain Project to realise enhanced economic and operational benefits for the province and its residents. The Gautrain, a state-owned asset, is valued at approximately R45 billion.


A preferred bidder has been identified for the new concession agreement. During the negotiation period, the GMA has triggered a contractual holdover arrangement as of 28 March 2026, that will allow the current operator, Bombela Operating Company (BOC), to continue operating the Gautrain system as per the existing Concession Agreement which makes provision for a holdover period of six months, thereby ensuring uninterrupted service to passengers.


The PPP model remains central to Gautrain’s operational framework. In his recent National Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, emphasised that public institutions should increasingly consider PPPs as a viable alternative model for delivery.


In parallel with ensuring operational continuity, Gautrain remains committed to making public transport more accessible and affordable. Among its initiatives is KlevaMova, which provides a 50% discount on train fares to qualifying low-income earners, scholars, pensioners and SASSA disability grant recipients. Since its launch in May 2025, thousands of eligible passengers have registered for KlevaMova. Students under the age of 25 also benefit from a 50% discount through the Student Product, which was introduced in 2022.


The GMA continues to support the Gauteng Provincial Government in advancing transport and rail-related initiatives, including the rollout of smart Driver’s Licence Testing Centres located closer to communities, particularly within Townships, Informal Settlements and Hostels.


“As we transition into the post-2026 phase, our priority is to safeguard service continuity, strengthen private-sector participation, and ensure that the Gautrain continues to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, job creation and improved mobility for all residents of Gauteng,” said the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.


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Issued by the Department of Roads and Transport and the Gautrain Management Agency.

For media enquiries contact:

Lesiba Mpya
Spokesperson for the MEC for Roads and Transport
Lesiba.Mpya@gauteng.co.za

Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za

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GAUTRAIN REWARDS LOYALTY WHILE EXPANDING ACCESS
20 February 2026

Earlier today, five loyal Gautrain passengers were announced as winners of R50 000 cash at the Ride and Repeat Competition Winner Announcement Event, held during the morning peak period. The live draw rewarded commuters who purchased monthly products and travelled consistently over three consecutive months, reinforcing the convenience, reliability, and real value Gautrain delivers for everyday travel.


The Ride and Repeat Competition, which ran from September to December 2025, formed part of Gautrain’s broader strategy to grow ridership, encourage consistent train use, and reward customer loyalty. By incentivising regular travel, the initiative highlighted the cost savings and time efficiency that make Gautrain a preferred choice for thousands of commuters.


“We are thrilled to reward our loyal passengers through initiatives like Ride and Repeat,” said Tshepo Kgobe, CEO of the Gautrain Management Agency. “Every day, our commuters choose Gautrain as a safe, reliable, and convenient mode of transport. This competition is our way of saying thank you, while encouraging even greater use of public transport.”


Over the past year, Gautrain has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility, easing congestion, and supporting economic activity across Gauteng.


Among these initiatives is KlevaMova, a product that offers a 50% discount on train fares to qualifying low-income earners, scholars, pensioners, and SASSA disability grant recipients. Since its launch in May 2025, thousands of eligible passengers have registered for KlevaMova, expanding access to affordable, high-quality public transport.


Students under the age of 25 also qualify for a 50% discount on train fares through the Student Product, which was launched in 2022.


Commuters also continue to benefit from Gautrain’s R1-a-day parking promotion, available when using the train. The promotion runs until 26 March 2026, further enhancing the value proposition for regular passengers.


In partnership with minibus taxi operators, Gautrain has also expanded its Midibus Feeder and Distribution Service routes to Parkhurst, Longlake, Summerset, Centurion West, and Halfway Gardens. Operating from Hatfield, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, and Rosebank stations, the midibus service is available at R13 per trip, improving station accessibility and reducing traffic congestion in surrounding areas.


Beyond expanding connectivity, the Midibus initiative supports taxi industry partners through skills transfer, comprehensive driver training, and annual refresher programmes, ensuring high standards of safety, professionalism, and customer service. The Gautrain also offers a bus service at its stations using standard, full-size buses known as Gaubuses, excluding O.R. Tambo Station.


Gautrain also supports large-scale social and leisure events, offering extended late-night services and collaborating with transport partners, including PRASA, to facilitate seamless travel to and from key venues.


“These initiatives reflect our commitment to providing accessible, reliable, and safe transport for everyone,” Kgobe concluded. “By making public transport more rewarding and inclusive, we are contributing to reduced congestion, improved mobility, and stronger economic growth in Gauteng.”


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Contact:

Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za

Follow Gautrain on:

•X (formerly known as Twitter) - @TheGautrain
•Facebook – www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website – www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693


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GAUTRAIN INVESTS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT IN KLIPSPRUIT WEST
06 February 2026

Against the backdrop of persistent child poverty, the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) today officially launched a newly built Early Childhood Development (ECD) and after-care facility at the Klipspruit West Family Centre. The centre will provide vulnerable children with access to early learning, nutrition, and holistic development opportunities.


According to Statistics South Africa’s 2023 Poverty Trends Report, children aged 0 to 17 remain the most vulnerable group, accounting for 43.1% of South Africa’s poor population. The new facility represents a practical, community-based intervention that improves educational outcomes while supporting families with nutrition, care, and safe learning spaces.


Funded through the GMA’s Social Investment Programme, the centre represents an investment of approximately R1.7 million in early learning infrastructure. It offers quality early childhood education, structured after-school care, and a safe, nurturing environment. Children attending the centre receive three nutritious meals daily, homework support, and access to sports, arts, and life-skills programmes.


Speaking at the launch, GMA Board Chair Prof. Mfanelo Ntsobi highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility:


"Corporate social investment is more than philanthropy; it is a cornerstone of our nation’s socio-economic development. Challenges like poverty, inequality, and unemployment demand proactive responses. By investing in our communities, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also strengthening the social fabric, bridging divisions, and creating opportunities for all South Africans to thrive," said Prof. Ntsobi.


The facility forms part of the Gautrain Project’s ongoing commitment to sustainable community development, particularly in under-resourced areas along the Gautrain corridor and across Gauteng. Through its Social Investment Programme, the GMA supports non-profit organisations working in education, including ECD and STEM initiatives, community care for vulnerable children, and environmental sustainability.


The Klipspruit West Family Centre, a long-standing non-profit, delivers a wide range of social support programmes, including a monthly granny support group, TB, HIV, and AIDS awareness workshops, youth life-skills training, referrals for survivors of abuse and sexual violence, and the provision of school uniforms, stationery, blankets, and clothing to families in need.


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_____________________________________________________________________________________
Contact:

Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za

Follow Gautrain on:

•X (formerly known as Twitter) - @TheGautrain
•Facebook – www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website – www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693


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