‘0% alcohol limit while driving’: Here’s how government plans to improve road safety

On 28 August 2026, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, addressed the Frank Dialogue on The State of Transformation of the Transport Industry at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton. He announced the government's plan to introduce a zero tolerance policy for alcohol consumption while driving, effectively implementing a 0% alcohol limit.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged the significant economic impact of road fatalities, estimating they cost the South African economy R266 billion per year. Despite a 6.2% reduction in road fatalities in 2025, compared to 2024, and a 9% decrease in 2026, Hlengwa emphasized that these figures represent 11,400 lives lost.

To enhance road safety, the government aims to reduce road fatalities by 50% by 2030 and move 250 million tonnes of freight on the Transnet network and transport 600 million passengers on the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) network by the same year. These targets align with the United Nations' aim to reduce road fatalities.

Hlengwa also introduced an integrated one ticketing system across all modes of transport, including transport grants and taxi recapitalisation. He highlighted the importance of integrating technology, such as AI, satellite monitoring, drone technology, and ground sensors, to identify structural risks before road failure.

Gautrain Management Chairperson Mfanelo Ntsobi emphasized that the South African transport system is fragmented, with various spheres of government, transport authorities, operators, and modes. He stressed the need for integration to ensure citizens can access any mode of transport affordably and safely, aiming to save money and time while reducing congestion and environmental impact.