Residents and businesses within Nongoma, uPhongolo and surrounding areas stand to benefit from a multimillion rand upgrade of the Main Road P2-53, which will not only improve local infrastructure, but create employment and contribute to economic growth in the area.
The Main Road P2-53 53 in uPhongolo Local Municipality serves as a crucial feeder road to the National Road, N2-32.
Its resurfacing, at a cost of over R329 million, is aimed at enhancing accessibility, benefiting numerous residents and businesses within Nongoma, uPhongolo and surrounding areas.
The development of the road will also improve road safety in the area, and also help to boost the local economy by making it easier for people to travel to and from the area.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the development of the road not only promises better accessibility, but also aims to bolster road safety within the region.
Dube-Ncube said the upgraded road is also expected to catalyse the local economy by facilitating smoother travel
for residents and visitors alike.
‘Moreover, the upgraded road provides vital access to numerous communities, social facilities, and businesses, including educational institutions like Petergate Primary, Empakama Public, KwaMagwaza Combined Primary, and others.
‘It also serves as a gateway to essential amenities such as healthcare facilities, police stations, places of worship, and recreational areas like the Mkhuze Game Reserve,’ Dube-Ncube said.
To ensure the inclusivity of the project, the Premier said a combination of established contractors and emerging contractors was enlisted through the Contractor Participation Goal (CPG).
‘Contracts were strategically grouped to maximise employment opportunities, aligning with the objectives of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and contract participation goals, thus fostering job creation within the area,’ the Premier said.
The section of the road undergoing upgrades falls under the governance of Mgazini Traditional Council, under the leadership of Inko
si Ntshangase, and Osuthu Traditional Council, under the auspices of His Majesty King Misizulu kaZwelithini, covering Ward One and Ward 18.
Source: South African Government News Agency