TTPod 5.3: "The Other Side Of The Tracks" In Conversation With Transnet Executive - Yolisa Kani Talking Transformation podcast

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TTPod 5.3: "The Other Side of the Tracks" In Conversation with Transnet Executive - Yolisa Kani

6h ago 51:15

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In this TTPod episode we’re catching up with someone who’s become a real friend of the podcast and a standout leader in South Africa’s public sector: Yolisa Kani. She’s back with me in Cape Town, bringing her trademark energy and a wealth of experience from both government and the private sector.

If you’ve followed Yolisa’s journey, you’ll know she’s spent decades at the forefront of transformation—blending policy, stakeholder negotiation, and commercial leadership to drive real change in how people and goods move across the country.

After a four-year stint leading public policy for Uber in Southern Africa she re-entered the public sector, taking on the pivotal role of Chief Business Development Officer at Transnet.

In this episode she reflects on:

* The launch of LeaseCo, which aims to mobilize rolling stock, invite third-party operators, and free up strategic assets for broader development.

* The cultural and leadership shifts happening within Transnet—and what that means for customers, cities, and the economy over the next 12 to 36 months.

* Practical steps being taken to turn surplus Transnet property into real urban opportunities, and how the company is responding to calls for more flexible, mixed-use developments near transport nodes.

We conclude with Yolisa’s candid reflections on the challenges ahead, the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors, and the milestones set for the coming year—including the ambitious targets for LeaseCo and the broader reforms designed to get more freight off the roads and onto rail.

So, settle in for a conversation that’s as insightful as it is inspiring. As always, we hope you enjoy the episode.

Recorded 20th October 2025

103 episodes

#Society #Pete Ahmad