Infrastructure is the foundation on which South Africa’s future is constructed, says Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister, Sihle Zikalala.
“In order for our country to realise economic success, and the improved quality of life for all citizens, we must pay attention to the issues of infrastructure planning, execution and investment,” Zikalala said.
Addressing the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) this week, Zikalala said there is consensus that the bedrock and cornerstone of any country’s competitiveness, prosperity and social well-being is infrastructure.
“Infrastructure development transcends mere construction, it builds bridges that connect people to markets, opportunities and each other,” Zikalala said, adding that connectivity is the lifeline of business, fuelling the flow of goods, services and ideas that drive innovation and growth.
He also emphasised the role of infrastructure in facilitating market access.
“For black industrialists in rural and township areas, robust infrastructure means broader market reach, integration into global value chains, and enhanced competitiveness. By enhancing connectivity, ensuring reliable access to electricity, and bridging the digital divide, we set the foundation upon which the engines of our industries can thrive.
“Targeted infrastructure development in rural areas and townships, marked by apartheid's legacy, have a potential to ignite a renaissance of industrial and entrepreneurial activity.”
Addressing imbalances of the past
The Deputy Minister said that since the dawn of democracy, South Africa has worked towards redressing the imbalances of the past and forging a pathway towards economic empowerment for all its people.
“The strides we have made are commendable. Through targeted initiatives and steadfast policy interventions, we have witnessed the burgeoning of black entrepreneurship and industrialism across sectors, from manufacturing and agribusiness to technology and renewable energy.
“These pioneers are reshaping our economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and opening new markets. However, our journey is far from complete. We confront challenges such as barriers to access, financing constraints, stalled projects, crime, and gaps in infrastructure that can hinder even the most promising ventures.”
Delivering on projects
Zikalala said in South Africa, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) is also the custodian of the state’s immovable assets, responsible for the construction, refurbishment and maintenance of public assets from which all government services are rendered.
The immovable asset portfolio under the custodianship of the DPWI comprises approximately 30 000 land parcels on which some 90 000 facilities are located.
“Through Infrastructure South Africa (ISA), we have a special purpose vehicle that leads infrastructure investment, assists with technical support to project sponsors to plan better, prepare and package their proposals such that they attract funding and generally within the public sector space to progressively build the capacity and capability to develop credible infrastructure project pipelines,” Zikalala said.
Zikalala said the seventh administration is introducing and fostering new approaches to get projects finished on time, within budget and to expected quality and performance according to specifications. – SAnews.gov.za
