Sihamba Sonke Mobility (SSM) – a consortium comprising the AIIM-Motseng JV, Alstom, RATP Dev, GIBB-Crede, AIH Connect and SSM InvestCo – has been appointed as operator of passenger rail company Gautrain for the next 15 years.

The 15-year concession, running from 2026 to 2041, covers the operation, maintenance and refurbishment of the Gautrain and its integrated feeder-bus network.

The concession has been procured under South Africa’s public-private partnership framework and is contracted with the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) on behalf of the Gauteng provincial government.

In a media release, the GMA says the conclusion of this process marks the beginning of a new phase for Gauteng’s flagship rapid rail system, with a renewed focus on investment, modernisation, operational sustainability, improved passenger experience and stronger integration with the province’s broader public transport network.

The new 15-year operating arrangement provides a platform for the continued development of the Gautrain as a strategic provincial transport asset and supports the commitments made by the Gauteng government in the Premier’s State of the Province Address, in February.

The GMA says the Gautrain has become an important part of Gauteng’s economic and transport infrastructure, connecting people to employment, education, business, leisure and other opportunities across the province.

After operating for 16 years, the system has recorded more than 216-million passenger trips.

The next phase will build on this foundation through progressive investment and modernisation across the Gautrain system.

Planned improvements include an increased train frequency during weekday off-peak periods; extended operating hours; expansion of the fleet from 24 to 32 four-car electric multiple units; new and upgraded trains with improved passenger amenities; improved integration between Gautrain trains and feeder bus services; additional feeder routes and midibuses; upgrades to stations, facilities and depots; and improved security and passenger information systems.

Other improvements include expanded public WiFi and improved digital services; full backup power provision for stations; a planned 30% renewable-energy contribution across stations and depots; and the progressive introduction of account-based ticketing and an integrated Mobility-as-a-Service digital platform.

The GMA says these interventions will be implemented progressively over the 15-year period and are intended to create a more frequent, accessible, connected, resilient and sustainable public transport service.

The conclusion of the process also provides certainty for the continued operation of the Gautrain while creating an opportunity to unlock further value from one of Gauteng’s most important strategic infrastructure assets.

The Gauteng government says it will continue to work with the GMA and relevant stakeholders to ensure the transition into the new operating phase is managed effectively and that passengers experience continuity of service.

“The focus now shifts from concluding the process to delivering the next chapter of the Gautrain – one that supports Gauteng’s growth, improves mobility and responds to the changing needs of passengers and communities.

“The Gauteng government remains committed to ensuring the Gautrain continues to contribute to economic development, reduce pressure on road-based transport and strengthen Gauteng’s integrated public transport system,” says the GMA.

SSM will be responsible for the continued operation and maintenance of the existing system, including the refurbishment required to support its long-term performance, reliability and quality throughout the concession period.

SSM InvestCo has been established as a black broad-based ownership vehicle designed to enable Gauteng residents to participate directly in the ownership of the concession company, extending the economic participation associated with one of the province’s most significant public assets.

In a separate media release, SSM investment principal Mpho Mutloane says the concession represents both an important responsibility and an opportunity to build on the foundation established by the Gautrain over the past two decades.

“The Gautrain has become an important part of Gauteng’s economic and transport infrastructure. As SSM, we recognise the responsibility that comes with taking stewardship of an asset of this significance.

“Our focus is on ensuring continuity, maintaining the standards commuters have come to expect and investing in the system so that it can continue to serve the people and economy of Gauteng for many years to come.”

SSM explains that the post-2026 concession became effective on September 28, allowing for continuity between the current and new operating arrangements.