The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) successfully hosted a stakeholder webinar on 06 March, adopting a hybrid format that enabled broad participation across the rail sector. The session drew a significant national audience, with the most participants joining virtually, while a select group attended in person at the a multimedia studio in Midrand.
The in-person delegation was led by the Chief Executive Officer of the RSR, Mr Brian Monakali, supported by industry experts including Mr Denis Owaga, Head of Safety Permits and Mr Joseph Nethathe, Senior Manager: Technical Services from the RSR, Mr Nkululeko Gobhozi, Chief Engineer at Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM), alongside members of the Rolling Stock Working Group.
The team played a pivotal role in developing the Train Operators Guide for Rolling Stock Acceptance in the South African Network, ensuring rich engagement and providing stakeholders with direct access to key decision-makers and technical experts responsible for shaping the guideline.
The webinar served as an important platform to unpack the guide, which outlines a structured, life-cycle approach to rolling stock acceptance from concept and design through to manufacturing, testing, operations and eventual decommissioning.
Participants were taken through the regulatory requirements, submission processes, and collaborative mechanisms between Train Operating Companies, the RSR and network owners to ensure safe and compliant railway operations.
The hybrid approach proved highly effective, allowing for inclusive participation while maintaining the depth of engagement typically associated with in-person sessions. Stakeholders were able to interact, raise questions and gain clarity on key aspects of rolling stock approval within the South African rail network.
“Today marks a significant moment for the rail industry,” said CEO, Brian Monakali, reflecting on the stakeholder engagement that brought together distinguished experts committed to rail and logistics excellence.
“From strategic commercial frameworks to cutting-edge engineering solutions, the insights shared today demonstrate the collective commitment to strengthening South Africa’s rail infrastructure. Together, we must continue driving efficiency, innovation and safety across the network.”
Overall, the webinar marked a significant step in strengthening industry alignment, promoting regulatory awareness, and reinforcing the RSR’s commitment to enhancing railway safety through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
To access presentation and the draft guidelines document, click here: https://shorturl.at/pnVhk.
Further comments or inputs can be submitted to events@rsr.org.za by 09 April 2026.
