The community of Ekuvukeni and surrounding areas welcomed the announcement today (February 20) that the P32 (Helpmekaar Road) will be rehabilitated. The announcement was made by MEC for Transport Siboniso Duma.

He said the refurbishment of this 22-kilometre road is necessary because it is a ‘corridor’ that joins different towns.

Duma added that the community of Ekuvukeni had previously raised concerns about the state of this road. “Some years ago, the  community of Ekuvukeni had a service delivery strike. We came here with President Cyril Ramaphosa (who was deputy at the time) and the community told us what was concerning them. One of the things was this road, so it is for this reason that we are here today,” explained Duma.

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He promised that 30% of the money allocated will benefit local small businesses. Allocating 30% of R118 million in total, he said that R35 million goes to local businesses led by women; R41million goes to youth businesses; R5 million goes to businesses led by people living with disabilities; and R11 million to businesses led by military veterans.

Wards that will benefit from this project include Ward 7, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36.

The work is expected to begin in a month’s time and is expected to finish in 2027. The contractor that has been appointed for this project is Solethu Ntungane JV and it will cost R550,942,119.

“I wish to appeal to the community not to disturb the construction, as this project belongs to you and we hope to have a good working relationship,” concluded Duma.

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