South Africa risks losing valuable economic opportunities unless it prioritises the maintenance of its existing roads, rail networks and airports. This is according to Dr Olebogeng Baikgakian academic in transport economics at the North-West University (NWU).
He warns that deteriorating transport infrastructure could undermine economic growth, weaken trade and limit the country’s competitiveness.
Dr Baikgaki says South Africa must balance investment in new transport projects with the urgent need to repair ageing infrastructure. He warns that poor maintenance increases business costs, discourages investment and limits access to essential services, particularly in rural provinces.
“Transport is the heartbeat of the South African economy and plays a critical role in ensuring the effective functioning of all economic sectors,” he says.
He explains that transport connects workers to jobs, businesses to markets and communities to essential services. When transport systems fail, the effects spread across the economy, disrupting supply chains and reducing productivity.
Despite continued investment in new infrastructure, South Africa faces growing concerns about the condition of its existing transport networks. Dr Olebogeng points to North West, where two strategically important airports have suffered prolonged neglect and inadequate maintenance. He says their poor condition represents missed opportunities for tourism, trade and regional development.
“Rehabilitating and revitalising the two airports in North West could improve regional accessibility, facilitate business and tourism activities, attract investment, support industrial development and strengthen the movement of people and goods.”
The challenges extend beyond aviation. Deteriorating roads and unreliable rail networks increase transport costs and make it harder for businesses to operate efficiently. Small, medium and micro enterprises face particular difficulties because they depend on affordable transport to reach suppliers, customers and markets.
For rural communities, the consequences are equally serious. Poor roads increase travel times, raise vehicle maintenance costs and create safety risks. They also make it harder for residents to reach hospitals, schools and employment opportunities.
Dr Olebogeng says these challenges deepen the gap between urban and rural communities, particularly in provinces where road transport remains the main means of mobility.
He argues that maintaining existing infrastructure should become a priority for the government, municipalities and other stakeholders. Repairing roads, improving rail services and restoring neglected airports could strengthen regional economies, while protecting public investments.
“Prioritising the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing transport infrastructure, alongside investment in new infrastructure, will strengthen economic productivity, unlock regional economic potential and support the broader objectives of inclusive economic growth and development in South Africa,” he says.
Dr Olebogeng 's message is clear: South Africa's transport future depends not only on building new infrastructure but also on protecting what it already has.
Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki
