JOHANNESBURG - After months of searching, Gauteng finally has a new Gautrain operator.
Sihamba Sonke Mobility (SSM) has taken over the running of the Gautrain service and will operate it for the next 15 years.
Bombela Concession Company’s (BCC) contract to operate the Gautrain locomotives and transport services came to an end in March 2026.
At the time, BCC CEO Tshepo Kgobe said the appointment of a new concessionaire was about six months behind schedule.
READ: Gauteng to finalise new Gautrain operator as Bombela contract ends
The Gauteng Provincial Government took over the running of the service while it worked to secure a new operator.
Makgola Makololo, Commercial Director at Alstom Southern Africa, one of the companies represented on SSM’s board, says the consortium is working towards a seamless transition from the previous concession to the new operator.
With the new concession taking over at the end of September, commuters would have noticed little difference, she says.
READ: Govt yet to appoint successor as Bombela's Gautrain contract ends
“Over the next five years, we will have a transition in terms of an increase in the train’s timetable,” she says.
Commuters could see an increase in the number of trains as well as an enhanced passenger experience.
The SSM concession is valued at R8-billion, with Motseng Investment Holdings, led by Ipeleng Mkarhi, serving as the South African lead partner.