Transport - a catalyst for socio-economic growth and development opportunities to improve quality of life

Abstract

South Africa is one of the nation in Southern Africa with virtuous transport system as compared to most nations in the region. The refurbishment of road, rail, water and air transport has enhanced standards of living of most citizens. Even though transport industry has created employment and increased trade between South Africa and other nations worldwide, it has caused high levels of poverty since logistics costs constitute 45% of household income. This has resulted in high levels of inequality between high and lower income earners. The transport industry is characterized by high levels of road accidents which has claimed more than 4500 lives in 2014-2015 period. The socio economic status of South Africa characterized by high levels of gender and income inequality and poor educational standards especially in rural areas. However through the provision of free public ambulances and public scholar transport, equal opportunities for rural and urban scholars and settlers who travel long distances to school are and hospitals are created. Reduction in automobile dependency can lessens the threat transport industry is exerting on the environment, promoting non-motorized services which reduces congestion and rural infrastructural development through the construction of bridges and tared road to stimulate economic accomplishments in rural areas can improve the eminence of natural life of societies.