By OBAKENG MAJE
11 March 2025- The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong said during the State of the Province Address (SOPA) debate in Kimberley on Tuesday, that the provincial government remains steadfast in its commitment to economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development. Makatong said on 23 January 2025, the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa, signed the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 into law and that is a significant milestone in the nation’s history.
“This Act is a crucial step toward land reform and rectifying historical injustices, ensuring that land expropriation aligns with the constitutional imperatives of justice and equity.
“The construction sector continues to be a critical driver of economic development, with the provincial government having completed 50 capital building projects and upgraded over 105 000km of roads in the past five years,” she said.
Makatong further said the Special Economic Zones (SEZs), including the Namakwa SEZ, are driving industrialization and employment, particularly in the renewable energy sector. She added that the Expanded Public Works Program (EPWP), remains a pillar of employment creation, with over 95 689 jobs created in the past five years, representing 92% of the provincial target.
“Looking ahead, the government aims to create 153 427 jobs, prioritizing youth, women, and persons with disabilities. Skills development remains key with 2167 beneficiaries trained in technical trades from 2020/21 to 2023/24,” said Makatong.
She said the provincial road network is critical to the economic and social mobility and will continue to benefit from strategic investments. Makatong said the province has seen substantial progress, with 4470km of roads managed by SANRAL, and an additional 350km set for transfer in the 2025/26 financial year.
“Key projects include the Laxey-Heuningvlei Road Upgrade (MR974 & DR3497), which is set for phased implementation. The project will create 78 job opportunities and is expected to be completed in July 2026.
“The Sutherland-Calvinia Road Upgrade (MR567), which enhances regional trade and connectivity, with phase 1 completed and phase 2 underway. Also, the establishment of SANRAL’s new offices in Kimberley will strengthen the partnership with the province,” she said.
Makatong said the Northern Cape Provincial Government remains committed to delivering 60 000 new jobs over the next five years. She said under the EPWP, 23 740 work opportunities were created in the 2023/24 financial year, exceeding the annual target by 109%.
“The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works, played a vital role, achieving 99% of its set goal with 12 769 work opportunities generated. To address evolving labour market needs, 2167 beneficiaries received training in critical fields such as diesel mechanics, welding, refrigeration, and rigging,” said Makatong.
She said these efforts align with the broader government strategy to enhance employment and economic inclusivity. According to Makatong, infrastructure development remains a top priority under the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP).
“The province completed 50 capital infrastructure projects, with 30 more currently under construction. Land transformation also remains integral, with 40 land parcels identified and 12 disposals finalized to promote integrated settlement growth.
“The provincial government is unwavering in its commitment to inclusive economic growth, poverty alleviation, and job creation,” she said.
Makatong said as the province advances toward a modern, growing, and successful Northern Cape, strategic investments in infrastructure and employment initiatives will continue to drive progress and development.
The Guardian 