DELMAS – The Mpumalanga MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Mr Thulasizwe Thomo, officially handed over the completed R50 road project in Delmas on Friday, December 13, 2024. The project, which began in July 2020, was aimed at improving road infrastructure in the area and creating job opportunities for local communities.
The MEC expressed his appreciation for the completion of the R50 road project. “We appreciate and thank the people of Victor Khanye for allowing this project to be completed, even though it took much longer than expected. It was meant to be an 18-month project, but these are challenges we need to address as the Department,” he said.
The R50 road, which runs from the N12 towards Delmas within the Victor Khanye Municipality, saw significant contributions from Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) during its construction. These enterprises provided services such as plant hire, culverts, occupational health and safety services, and security. This initiative not only stimulated local economic growth but also empowered SMMEs to take part in large-scale infrastructure projects.
The handover ceremony was attended by Victor Khanye Local Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Vusi Buda, Speaker Henry Ngoma, councillors, and senior officials from the municipality and the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.
Mayor Buda commented on the road’s significance, “Victor Khanye is strategically located in Mpumalanga, as travellers from KwaZulu-Natal use this road to reach Tshwane and Limpopo. Economically, this road enhances the growth of our town.”
The completion of the R50 road is expected to improve road safety, reduce travel times, and boost economic activity in the region. It will also benefit local communities by improving access to social services, markets, and employment opportunities.
Chief Piet Mahlangu shared his thoughts with Highveld Chronicle, “We are pleased with the opening of the R50 road, and we urge motorists to take good care of it. This road used to have many potholes, but we are grateful it has been fixed.”
