Transnet signs research deal with CSIR

In terms of the partnership‚ Transnet and the CSIR will work together in identifying possible areas of co-operation and enter into specific arrangements in all areas of Transnet's operations including ports‚ railways and pipelines. Ownership and other rights‚ especially intellectual property‚ will be negotiated on a project basis depending on the work to be done.

"For Transnet to play its role in the economy‚ we have to grow‚ invest and modernise at an unprecedented rate. Therefore‚ we need to constantly explore innovations and technological advancements. We have that in abundance at the CSIR‚ an institution that has developed the expertise over the last couple of decades‚" said Transnet's chief executive‚ Brian Molefe.

CSIR chief executive Dr Sibusiso Sibisi said this partnership was an excellent opportunity for the CSIR to provide comprehensive research and development support to a state-owned company.

Transnet is a transport and logistics company‚ wholly-owned by the government‚. It employs about 60‚000 people and has assets worth R182bn.

The company is investing R300bn over the next seven years on revitalising and expanding its rail ports and pipelines infrastructure.