The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has strengthened efforts to rebuild commuter confidence through its Isitimela Sabantu – The People’s Train campaign, aimed at restoring passenger rail as a key driver of South Africa’s economic productivity.
Developed and managed by Ascent Africa, the campaign promotes rail as essential infrastructure connecting citizens to jobs, education, and services while reducing pressure on road transport.
PRASA recorded 77 million passenger trips in the 2024/25 financial year, signalling improving usage as fleet availability and service reliability continue to recover.
Award-winning artist Big Zulu has joined the initiative as a cultural ambassador, highlighting the role trains play in supporting everyday livelihoods and business activity.
PRASA operates over 2 280 kilometres of rail infrastructure nationwide and says continued investment in modernisation and local manufacturing is helping create jobs while strengthening South Africa’s transport network.
The campaign has already reached more than four million South Africans, reinforcing passenger rail’s role in economic recovery and inclusive growth.
