Tshatshu Village, South Africa: A recent South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) community development project in Tshatshu Village, near Zwelitsha, is proving to be a win-win for both infrastructure development and local economic empowerment.
The project, which aims to connect Tshatshu Village to key routes, has seen the significant involvement of 12 subcontractors, most holding Grade One or Two Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) certifications. These local contractors are playing crucial roles in tasks like laying macadam, constructing kerbs, and building sidewalks, and each employs between two and eight individuals from the community.
“This project serves as a model for how infrastructure development can be leveraged to empower local communities,” said Sanral spokesperson, Sipho Maseko. “By breaking down the project into smaller, manageable segments and involving local contractors, we are not only creating essential infrastructure but also fostering economic growth and skills development within the community.”
The labor-intensive approach adopted by Sanral has resulted in the creation of employment opportunities for approximately 50 residents, with tasks ranging from rock packing to concrete mixing.
Zikhona Xotyeni, founder of Xotyeni Renovations and Constructions, is one such local entrepreneur who has benefited from the project. “This project has been a game-changer for my business,” she enthused. “We’ve gained valuable experience working on a large-scale project, and the income generated has allowed us to reinvest in equipment and training for our team.”
The positive impact of the project extends beyond immediate economic benefits. The experience gained by local contractors like Xotyeni can equip them to compete for larger contracts in the future, fostering a more inclusive and diverse construction industry in South Africa.
Sanral’s commitment to empowering local communities through its projects is a welcome development, particularly in the context of South Africa’s ongoing efforts to address socio-economic inequalities. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure development, Sanral’s approach serves as a valuable example of how such projects can be designed to create shared prosperity and empower local communities.