The Digital Factory Dialogue Session 2.22

Rail transport is an essential component of the overall transport system and has solidly contributed to the growth and development of many countries.

For instance, the rail network in Great Britain serves over 2,500 individual stations with an estimated 1.7 billion passenger journeys made and 17 billion tonnes kilometres of freight transported yearly. It is said to provide direct employment to around 240,000 people (Williams, 2019).

While rail technology is widely used, the sector is about to enter a new era of innovation. In today's fast-paced global market, tech-driven rail transport will assist the industry in meeting safety goals, reducing environmental impact, and maintaining a competitive edge.

In Ghana, railway development started during the colonial era and slowly went to rack and ruin after the 80s. Currently, steps are being taken to rehabilitate the old rail network and, in some cases, totally rebuild others.

The Parliament of Ghana has approved an 84.4km rail line from Tema-Akosombo. It is essential for the revamping of the sector to be tech-driven. Although it will require huge capital, this will help build a robust rail system that is flexible enough to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

This edition of Digital Factory will shine the light on Tech-Driven Rail Transport, emphasising Ghana’s Rail Industry.

We will dig deep to collect insights on countries with vibrant rail sectors moving towards automated technology and determine what can be learnt from these countries.

About SIA-Africa

The mission of SIA-Africa is to support initiatives that impact Education, Health, City Planning, Trade, and Economic Investments by matching resources with needs and opportunities.

Our aim is to facilitate the delivery of direct impact investments by using digital media and "match-making" concepts to create awareness about resources, needs and opportunities. Our goal is to empower the youth of Africa by encouraging them to embrace STEM, agri-entrepreneurship, tech-driven healthcare, infrastructure studies and internet governance, nation branding, sustainable urban planning, ecotourism and the arts.