Transnet signs a R6.6bn deal to keep its locomotives running
Wabtec will supply parts, expertise and digital monitoring for two of the freight utility's main locomotive fleets, as South Africa works to recover its rail freight.
PANM — Transnet Engineering has signed a long-term support agreement worth about R6.6 billion with the rail equipment maker Wabtec to improve the performance of its locomotives, SAnews reports.
What the deal covers
The agreement supports Transnet's Class 43D and Class 44D locomotive fleets. Wabtec will provide:
- components
- technical expertise
- predictive maintenance, which aims to fix faults before they cause breakdowns
- its Expert-on-Alert digital condition-monitoring platform
The partnership also includes technical collaboration, knowledge transfer and work to make more parts locally.
Why it matters
Transnet says the deal should make more locomotives available and more reliable on key freight corridors, speed up maintenance and improve the management of the fleet over its working life. It is also expected to build local rail skills.
Bessie Mabunda, chief executive of Transnet Engineering, said better reliability and availability would support service delivery and the recovery of freight volumes, as part of Transnet's Reinvent for Growth strategy. She signed with Tefo Mokaila, director of Wabtec South Africa, in the presence of Transnet's group chief operating officer, Solly Letsoalo.
Transnet said the contract went through its established procurement and governance processes.
Source: SAnews, Transnet signs R6.6 billion deal to strengthen locomotive fleet performance, 16 October 2026.
