GESAT to supply 100 locomotives to Transnet

Pradeep Maharaj, the acting group CE of Transnet and Swaady Marie Martin, GE's regional director for Southern Africa and acting chief executive of GESAT, signed the transaction. To expedite the supply of the order, this tender was open only to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in keeping with the group's procurement policies.

In terms of the contract, GESAT will work with Transnet Rail Engineering in executing the order as part of Transnet's efforts to localise supply of imported equipment of its R80 billion capital investment programme to promote industrial development.

Transferring technology to SA

"We are thrilled at being able to leverage the transfer of skills, protect local employment and transfer technology into South Africa from the OEM,” says Chris Wells, the acting group CE at Transnet, referring to the company's continued participation in the government-inspired Competitive Supplier Development Programme (CSDP), which it pioneered.

This is Transnet's biggest CSDP commitment since its inception more than a year ago. Wells says the group is committed to expanding the CSDP programme to the acquisition of port equipment as well. "We are appreciative of the dedication and hard work of all the bidders and look forward to a continued relationship on current and future fleet renewal programmes.”