and Intermediate Means of Transport (NMT/IMT) Conference and Exhibition
21 February 2007
Johannesburg: The Department of Transport will host the first-ever
Non-Motorised Transport and Intermediate Means of Transport Conference and
Exhibition from 22 to 23 February 2007 at Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Gauteng.
The theme of the conference is: "Expanding the boundaries of non-motorised and
intermediate means of transport for sustainable livelihoods."
The Department of Transport is responsible for leading the provision of
safe, reliable, integrated, affordable and environmentally sustainable
transport systems that support the economy and the quality of life. In the
light of this vision the department is promoting alternative, affordable
healthy and sustainable means of transport.
The conference marks an important milestone in the Department of Transport's
efforts to facilitate the use of non-motorised transport. This gathering of
local and international experts is an opportunity to discuss the issues of
reform, investment and public participation that are necessary to firmly
entrench non-motorised transport as a recognised and fully supported form of
transport in South Africa.
Contributing to the eradication of poverty in South Africa is a central
element of transport policy and strategy. Walking, cycling and intermediate
modes of transport are primary modes of transport in South Africa, and are
recognised as such by the transport community. The recognition of this is the
first step towards elevating the status of non-motorised transport; the next
step is to determine priorities, target and define investment resources, and
monitor and assess the implementation of efficient policies and programmes.
Improving mobility through the provision of varied, affordable, safe and
sustainable transport options contributes to South Africa's development,
improving lives and uplifting people.
The objectives of the International NMT/IMT exhibition and conference are
to:
* create awareness regarding non-motorised and intermediate means of
transport modes as viable and effective mobility solutions
* share South African and international experiences regarding non-motorised
transport and intermediate means of transport
* showcase the latest non-motorised transport and intermediate means of
transport technologies and promote dialogue among manufacturers, retailers and
users
* build and improve relationships with local and international cycling
networks.
The two-day conference will host speakers from the Netherlands, India,
Brazil, America and South Africa who will present papers on non-motorised
transport policies and strategies, local and overseas case studies, the
provision of cycling infrastructure, the 2010 Soccer World Cup and
non-motorised transport, cycle safety and other key issues.
The conference seeks to stimulate debate, formulate strategies to be
translated into implementation to promote the mainstreaming of non-motorised
transport into the transport system and motivate policy decision makers,
transport planners and transport engineers to view the provision of
non-motorised transport as an integral part of the transport system.
The conference will conclude with a cycle ride and the handing over of
bicycles to learners from the provinces in the continuation of making
non-motorised transportation accessible.
An exhibition featuring bicycles and tricycles, cycling gear, accessories
and equipment, the history of cycles and cycling and animal drawn carts will be
held parallel to the conference.
More than 400 registered international, national, provincial and local
government delegates as well as cycling advocacy groups, international and
local media will attend the Conference and exhibition.
Media contact:
Sam Monareng
Cell: 083 326 1521
Issued by: Department of Transport
21 February 2007
Source: SAPA
