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October is recognised across the country as Transport Month, an annual campaign that has been running since it was first declared during the Transport Lekgotla in 2005. Led by the Department of Transport, the campaign runs from 1 to 31 October every year and seeks to highlight the vital role that transport plays in South Africa's economic growth, social development, and the everyday lives of its citizens. It underscores the importance of safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable transport, while also stressing the need for well-maintained infrastructure. Beyond awareness, Transport Month serves as a platform to engage all sectors of society, including civil organisations, the private sector, and every level of government, to work together in building and strengthening the national transport system.
The theme for this year, "Together we move South Africa forward," is a call to collective action and shared responsibility. It reflects government's commitment to ensuring that transport services are not only efficient and dependable but also inclusive, catering to disadvantaged and marginalised communities who often face the greatest barriers to accessibility. By focusing on reliability and affordability, the campaign reinforces the principle that a truly functional transport system must serve everyone equally.
In Gauteng, the Department of Community Safety has taken a leading role in driving road safety initiatives that align with the goals of Transport Month. Through continuous campaigns in schools, communities, and across public spaces, the department promotes responsible road behaviour among drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. These efforts are aimed at reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the province's roads. The impact of these campaigns is becoming increasingly visible in statistical trends. During the 2024 festive season, Gauteng reported 235 fatalities from 224 vehicle crashes, the highest number of fatalities nationally during that period. While these figures remain a serious concern, significant progress was observed over the Easter weekend in 2025, where the province recorded a 42% reduction in fatalities, with only 22 deaths compared to 52 in 2024. This sharp decline demonstrates that sustained awareness campaigns, intensified law enforcement, and increased visibility on the roads can indeed save lives.
However, challenges remain. Risky behaviours such as reckless driving, speeding, drunk driving, distracted driving, and the failure to wear seat belts continue to account for a large share of accidents. Law enforcement has increased efforts through roadblocks, arrests, and fines, particularly during high-risk periods such as festive seasons and long weekends, yet compliance is still not where it should be. The lesson is clear: while enforcement is crucial, real progress requires lasting behaviour change. Campaigns must therefore be not only consistent but also context-specific, targeting different communities and groups with relevant, relatable messages that encourage safer habits on the road.
As Transport Month begins, it is a timely reminder that achieving safer roads and a more reliable transport system cannot be the task of government alone. It calls for a joint effort by communities, civil society, businesses, and individuals. Every driver, pedestrian, and passenger has a role to play in creating a culture of responsibility and care on the roads. By continuing to strengthen partnerships, promote road safety, and invest in modern and inclusive infrastructure, South Africa can move closer to building a transport system that not only underpins economic activity but also protects lives and improves the quality of daily travel for all its people.