MEC Jacob Mamabolo on technology improving road safety in Gauteng

Technological innovation key in improving road safety and growing economy - MEC Mamabolo 

It is important that government invests in new technologies and innovative solutions that will save lives on our roads and place Gauteng province on a positive growth trajectory. 

This is according to Gauteng MEC for Public Transport and Roads Infrastructure Jacob Mamabolo who addressed delegates at the 3rd Technology and Innovation Conference (TIC) hosted by the University of Pretoria on Wednesday. 

“As the core of the national road network leading to neighbouring countries, international airports and harbours, Gauteng plays an integral role in the transport value chain. Therefore, it is imperative that government work with transport industry experts and academics to leverage on smart technology, ideas and solutions to improve road safety. 

“Furthermore, transport give us an opportunity to build a new economy. I anticipate that in the next few years, transport economy should be the leading economic indicator for the province. This can be achieved through ongoing research and innovation in the transport industry that will provide us with important data to build new industries and create jobs,” Mamabolo said. 

The MEC called for the establishment of a roundtable discussion to explore best solutions and ideas to curb road accidents. 

“Driver behaviour and conduct remain a major contributor to most road accidents. We need to find innovative solutions that will reduce human involvement that leads to carnages.

“In an era of the 4th Industrial Revolution, it should be possible to develop smart technology systems to automate the driver testing process at our licensing centers, said Mamabolo. 

He added these initiatives will not only assist in assessing the driving capability of motorists but will also assist in reducing corruption at testing centres across the province. 

The conference was attended by  technology experts, innovators and decision-makers from public and private sector who discussed various developments and shared ideas around digital and technological innovation. 

The MEC stressed that smart transport solutions are key drivers towards improving the transport network. 

“Ongoing engagements with various stakeholders are key to achieving our goals. We welcome engagements like this one as they provide a platform for all players to share ideas on smart solutions to assist the industry become more successful,” he explained. 

MEC concluded by encouraging delegates to value the importance of data collection. 

“Data is one of the most important aspects that can be used to be innovative and creative in finding new solutions to some of the transport industry challenges we face. 

“Information is critical if we are to keep up with the latest trends in innovation and technology not only for the current generation but for posterity,” he concluded. 

Enquiries:
Theo Nkonki
Cell: 082 719 6404

Melitah Madiba
Cell: 073 644 9935
E-mail: PressOffice.gpdrt@gauteng.gov.za

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