By Eamonn Ryan, derived from the podcast
In a podcast hosted by Peter Bruce of FM, Jamie Holley, CEO of Traxion, shared insights into the challenges and opportunities in the South African rail logistics sector. This article explores the challenges and opportunities within South Africa’s rail system, offering insights that are highly relevant to the cold chain industry. This is Part 3 of a 12-part series.

Rail logistics competition is growing as more private operators, including Traxion, enter the scene. When asked about the competitive landscape between DRC and Dar es Salaam, Holley confirms that other private companies are operating on the same tracks. These operators have been granted access rights to run their services, creating a more dynamic and competitive environment. Holley emphasises that rail systems, due to their heavy fixed costs, thrive when there is enough volume to move across the infrastructure. The more private sector operators in the system, the better it becomes for everyone involved. A successful partnership among competitors can ultimately strengthen the entire logistics ecosystem.
The growing continent-wide rail network
Traxion’s operations across Africa reflect a broader trend of growing private sector involvement in the rail industry. Holley notes that while Mozambique was one of the first countries to allow private sector participation, other nations have followed suit, and Traxion now operates in nine countries. This expansion is not just about operating on state-owned networks but also about the increasing number of countries opening their tracks to private companies.
Although Traxion’s main operations are based in South Africa, where their headquarters, workshop complexes and compliance teams are located in Pretoria, their reach spans much further. The company has established a strong presence across various African nations, leveraging South Africa’s resources while extending its services beyond the country.
The international origins of Traxion’s fleet
When it comes to Traxion’s fleet, the locomotives are sourced from global leaders in diesel-electric locomotive manufacturing. Holley explains that the majority of Traxion’s diesel locomotives are either General Electric (GE) or General Motors (GM) units, with parts originating from across the globe. These locomotives are robust and built to last, but they require strict maintenance protocols to ensure longevity. Interestingly, many of these locomotives were assembled in South Africa, thanks to its established infrastructure for manufacturing heavy machinery. While Traxion does not handle locomotive manufacturing directly, it benefits from the availability of high-quality parts and assembly services in South Africa.
Holley also points out that while Traxion operates trains across the continent, the company does not engage in manufacturing. Instead, it focuses on being a reliable operator and service provider. The complexities of train operation, maintenance, and logistics demand specialised knowledge, and Traxion excels in this area by ensuring top-notch service standards across its fleet.