NELSON MANDELA BAY MUNICIPALITY ACCELERATES INFRASTRUCTURE RECOVERY IN KARIEGA FOLLOWING LAST YEAR’S FLOODS

We are currently about 60% complete since construction began on 12 May 2025. We are targeting completion by mid to end of November 2025, which will allow the road to reopen just after Transport Month, which is commemorated in October. To date, the Matanzima bridge repair project has created jobs for 300 workers and benefitted approximately 28 to 30 SMMEs, particularly Grade 1 companies. Additionally, we are providing on-the-job training for labourers and collaborating closely with community members, business forums, the taxi industry, and Volkswagen. The total budget for both bridges is R73 million, with an expenditure of around R15 million to date."

Executive Mayor Lobishe expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts, "I want to commend the MMC, officials, project managers and workers for their commitment in driving this project forward within a short space of time. While it may seem lengthy, the scale of work required is significant, and we are pleased with the progress. I also want to thank the residents of KwaNobuhle for their support and patience. The success of this project is due, in large part, to the cooperation and encouragement from the local community."

This rehabilitation project aligns with the South African government's 7th Administration priorities, which emphasise:

• Inclusive economic growth and job creation: The project has created employment opportunities for 300 workers and supported 28 to 30 SMMEs, particularly Grade 1 companies.
• Reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living: By improving infrastructure, the project enhances access to essential services and economic opportunities for residents.
• Enhancing disaster resilience: The rehabilitation of Matanzima Bridge and Ponana Tini Road is a direct response to the flood damage, demonstrating the municipality's commitment to rebuilding resilient infrastructure.

The project also supports the national Disaster Management Framework, which focuses on:

• Improving prevention and mitigation measures: The rehabilitation efforts aim to restore and strengthen critical infrastructure, reducing vulnerability to future disasters.
• Ensuring better preparedness: The project involves community engagement and capacity-building, enhancing local preparedness for future emergencies.
• Strengthening response and recovery: The swift commencement and progress of the rehabilitation work reflect an effective response to the disaster and a commitment to rapid recovery.

The rehabilitation of Matanzima Bridge and Ponana Tini Road is vital for the daily lives of residents, serving as key transport links that connect communities, ease congestion, and improve access to schools, businesses, health facilities, and industrial hubs. Once completed, the project will enhance road safety, reduce travel times, and stimulate local economic activity, demonstrating the municipality's ongoing commitment to rebuilding resilient infrastructure after last year's devastating floods.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality continues to prioritise infrastructure recovery, public transport, and economic upliftment, ensuring that communities remain connected and sustainable development is advanced across the region.