The International Road Federation (IRF) has once again renewed– together with the South African Department of Transport – its support to the 42nd Annual Southern African Transport Conference (SATC 2024) hosted on 8-11 July 2024 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa.

Under the theme “Upskilling and reskilling the transport industry for current and future challenges,” the conference brought together a wide range of stakeholders involved in the transport sector to facilitate the identification and implementation of effective and efficient transportation solutions. The aim was to reposition the sector for improved service delivery and better respond to the needs of all users of our transport system.

The conference welcomed over 600 delegates from 18 countries and featured 25 exhibitors over the course of the four days. It provided a platform for national and international dialogues on transport as an enabler of accelerated socio-economic development. It also served as a forum for discussion and information exchange on the implementation of transport policy, strategy, and technology applications for all aspects and modes of transportation. Better cooperation between and engagement of all public and private sector stakeholders was one of the key issues debated, with solutions sought and action plans formulated. The conference also had a record youth participation.

The programme featured a broad range of thematic areas, including infrastructure development, cost-effective road building materials, urban and public transport, traffic management, safety and security, and rural transport. Other significant topics included the integration of public transport networks, the role of technology and innovation, and options for sustainable urban mobility. The conference also hosted specialised forums and workshops focused on engineering for safe systems, public-private partnerships, and the meaningful inclusion of women in the transport industry value chain.

A unique setting for IRF to extend to everyone an invitation to join the upcoming IRF World Congress scheduled in Istanbul on 15-18 October 2024 and renew the commitment to work hand-in-hand with all African stakeholders to advance the transport agenda in the continent.

Looking ahead, the dates for the 43rd edition of the Southern African Transport Conference have already been announced: 7-10 July 2025, once again at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. The call for papers, sponsors, and exhibitors is now open, more information is available here.