Operation Vulindlela has reported further progress on structural reforms aimed at improving South Africa’s economy, public services and investment climate.
The programme’s Quarter 1 report for 2026 said implementation had advanced across electricity, freight rail, water, immigration, local government, housing and digital public services.
Electricity and freight reforms advance
The first phase of the Eskom Restructuring Task Team’s work has been completed. President Cyril Ramaphosa endorsed its recommendations for an independent state-owned transmission entity.
Government is also working towards launching the South African Wholesale Electricity Market. The report said the changes are intended to lower risks, support energy security and create a more competitive electricity sector.
Freight rail reform also moved forward. Updated rules were published to expand access to the rail network and Rail Access Agreements were concluded with 11 train operating companies.
Work continued on plans to corporatise the Transnet National Ports Authority and finalise the draft National Rail Bill.
Water and visa changes gain momentum
The National Water Crisis Committee and National Water Action Plan now form part of government’s response to water supply problems.
The report also recorded progress on the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency, the Water Services Amendment Bill and new infrastructure financing mechanisms.
Immigration reforms are continuing through the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation system.
Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme has also launched, while new visa programmes are being developed to support tourism, business events and the creative industries.
Municipal services and housing targeted
The first group of metros has started implementing reforms through the Metro Trading Services Reform Programme. The initiative aims to strengthen the management and performance of municipal services.
Government is also developing affordable housing subsidies, releasing strategically located public land and working to reduce the title deed backlog.
PRASA continued restoring passenger rail services and expanding available rolling stock during the quarter.
Digital government projects also progressed. These include the MyMzansi platform, MzansiXchange, a national digital identity system and a modernised government payments programme.
Operation Vulindlela acknowledged that progress remained uneven in some areas because of complex institutional reforms and coordination between multiple stakeholders.
However, the programme said the next phase would focus on faster delivery, resolving bottlenecks and producing measurable results.
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