Localised solutions developed to suit South African challenges

Abstract

Although road fatalities are an increasing challenge for developed nations in Europe and Asia, the developing nation of South Africa already experiences a disproportionate rate of vehicular and pedestrian deaths. It is estimated that South Africa’s 16 000 annual road deaths cost the economy ZAR60 billion (US$7·5 billion) per year. A significant source of the country’s road death toll arises from a road and transportation infrastructure developed during South Africa’s political and social climate of apartheid. This resulted in a rural landscape of separation that, close to two decades later, still contains pockets of social segregation. The unique cultural and economic climate of South Africa requires infrastructure and socio-economic stimulus specifically suited for South Africa’s needs. Unfortunately, job creation and sustainability measures developed overseas can prove irrelevant in an African context. In order to provide suitable solutions, The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) created a community development implementation model establishing best-practice methodologies for South African road infrastructure projects. These best practices address root issues of poverty, education and health in line with the South African government’s goals for poverty alleviation. An example of successful implementation of the Sanral model is the Blackburn Pedestrian Bridge and Walkway project in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.