By OBAKENG MAJE
1 October 2025- The residents of Matsheng and Molelema said the delays on the R112 million D206 road project continues to have a negative impact on their livelihoods. One of the residents who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said their roads are inaccessible and that makes it hard for them to access essential public services, hospitals and schools.
He said their living conditions have declined as they continue to be subjected to poor service delivery.
“When you look at Molelema, you just see dejection. No booming businesses here. We only have DIY that is owned by the same individual who was supposed to construct the D206 road.
“All roads that lead to town are in shambles, especially during the rainy season. We just wonder why the North West Department of Public Works and Roads continues giving the contract to the same individual who previously failed us,” he said.
In 2021, a road construction project worth over R65 million was brought to a grinding halt after the department terminated the contract of the contractor, Daddy Tong of Botong Nkolele JV Construction over the obligation dispute. The budget allocation was increased to R85 million, but the project continued to be marred by challenges.
In 2023, the budget was increased to R112 million, but a road construction project that was supposed to transform the lives of the residents was hit by the delays again.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Public Works and Roads spokesperson, Mmakgori Tong said: “The department notes public concern regarding the delays and lack of activity on the D206 road project between Matsheng and Molelema. The department appointed a CIDB 9CE graded contractor with the required technical strength and capability to execute the project.
“However, in the 2024/25 financial year, the province experienced cash-flow challenges, which regrettably impacted payments to contractors. The situation led to the suspension of work on the D206 road project in January 2025, as the contractor cited delayed payments.”
Tong said the outstanding invoice was settled in March 2025. She further said in terms of GCC clause 5.11.5, once payment is made following a suspension on the basis of non-payment, the contractor is obliged to resume work within seven days.
“Subsequent to receipt of payment, the contractor failed to proceed with construction works on site, despite continuous engagements and correspondence from the department.
“At present, the department is pursuing contract enforcement processes and exploring all available legal and administrative remedies to address what constitutes a breach of contract by the contractor,” added Tong.
She said the department remains committed to ensuring that this important road project is completed and delivered for the benefit of the affected communities. Tong said they will continue to take all necessary steps to enforce compliance and restore progress on site.
The Guardian 