KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has highlighted the significant role of new houses and related settlements construction, including roads, as a catalyst for other sectors of the economy.
“The mining sector is stimulated through the production of copper, iron ore and other raw materials used in construction. As we build houses, we are stimulating the manufacturing sector for the production of steel, bricks, tiles, doors, window frames and so on,” Duma said.
Duma made the remarks during an inspection of the construction of houses and bridge projects at Inkosi Langalibalele and Alfred Duma Local Municipalities, under the UThukela District Municipality.
The MEC inspected the construction of the R49.6 million Qabango River Bridge in Wards 18 and 19 under the Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality, as well as a R21 million Acaciaville Housing Project in the Alfred Duma Local Municipalities.
Speaking at the construction site of the bridge, Duma said he was happy with the progress of the construction, noting that access to schools, clinics and socio-economic centres for local communities is now guaranteed.
The construction of the Qabango River Bridge has seen over 17 women and 32 young people being employed.
Duma said the department is prioritising the employment of local communities, including women and young people.
"Through the construction of Qabango River Bridge, we are fast-tracking the entry of small players into the construction industry. The breakdown of value of contracts awarded to companies owned by various categories include women and youth.”
He added that about R10, 3 million has been set aside to pay salaries of local communities involved in the construction of the bridge, which is expected to be completed in the next few months.
Duma also expressed his satisfaction on the progress made at the housing project, noting more work is still being done to ensure other groups, such as the military veterans benefit from the project.
“We have resolved to speed up the provision of bulk infrastructure [including] water and sanitation services in Acaciaville Housing Project. More than R80 million has been invested to create jobs in rural areas of UThukela District Municipality,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
