Categories: News

A New Chapter for Mahikeng: Road Z422 Officially Opens

Road Z422, a 15 km low-standard unpaved rural collector road in Lokaleng, Mahikeng, has been officially inaugurated and upgraded. The first phase of the project cost R123,175,287.20 and took 18 months to complete, benefiting various rural communities engaged in agricultural activities. The project received funding from the Equitable Share, and the completion of Phase 1 marks a crucial step towards achieving the government’s vision of constructing an inclusive and prosperous South Africa. The upgraded road will provide improved connectivity, better access to essential services, and increased safety for all users, ultimately stimulating local economies and contributing significantly to the overall development of the region.

What is Road Z422 in Mahikeng?

Road Z422 is a 15 km low-standard unpaved rural collector road that has been upgraded in Lokaleng, Mahikeng. It is a segment of a 29.5 km road that caters to various rural communities engaged in agricultural activities. The first phase of the project was completed at a cost of R123,175,287.20 over a period of 18 months, and it received funding from the Equitable Share.

Successful Completion of Road Z422 Phase 1

The North West Department of Public Works and Roads has proudly inaugurated the first phase of the upgraded Road Z422 in Lokaleng, Mahikeng. Present at the ceremony were MEC Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, Mahikeng Local Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Tshepiso Mphehlo, and Head of Department, Mr. Moss Kgantsi.

Constructed at a cost of R123,175,287.20 over a period of 18 months, Road Z422 is a segment of a 29.5 km low-standard unpaved rural collector road that caters to various rural communities engaged in agricultural activities. The project received funding from the Equitable Share, with the completed Phase 1 covering 15 km from the Albert Luthuli intersection, passing through Lokaleng and Mogosane, and reaching Tlapeng villages.

Focusing on Infrastructure Development for Progress

MEC Molapisi drew attention to the 2023 October Transport Month theme, underlining the urgent need for the government to invest in road infrastructure. He stated that this year’s campaign is centered on prioritizing infrastructure that fosters social emancipation, job creation, and the preservation of lives and livelihoods.

Subcontracting opportunities amounting to R20,840,176.07 were created during the project, benefitting 49 subcontractors and representing 32% of the contract value. Cllr Tshepiso Mphehlo, Executive Mayor of Mahikeng Local Municipality, acknowledged that the investment in road infrastructure showcases the Department of Public Works and Roads’ pledge to reposition and rebuild Mahikeng.

Acknowledgment and Appreciation from Tribal Authority

Kgosi Phenyo Motshegare, on behalf of the tribal authority, conveyed his gratitude to the department for addressing the community’s needs. He is optimistic that the new road will facilitate development in their villages, ultimately attracting investment. Kgosi Tlotlo Seru also expressed his appreciation during the event.

MEC Molapisi commended the Tribal Authority’s leadership throughout the project, emphasizing that the Road Z422 initiative did not encounter unnecessary delays and was finished within the stipulated time frame. He stressed that this achievement should serve as inspiration and guidance for other communities.

Paving the Way for Further Growth and Development

The completion of Phase 1 of Road Z422 marks a significant achievement for the North West Department of Public Works and Roads and the residents of Mahikeng. It symbolizes the government’s commitment to investing in crucial infrastructure that will enhance the lives of its citizens and promote economic growth.

Furthermore, the Tribal Authority’s involvement in this project underlines the importance of robust leadership and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the timely and successful completion of such initiatives. This partnership can act as a template for other communities seeking to undertake similar development projects.

The upgraded road brings the promise of improved connectivity, better access to essential services, and increased safety for all users. This investment is anticipated to not only stimulate local economies but also contribute significantly to the overall development of the region.

In summary, the official inauguration and handover of Phase 1 of the upgraded Road Z422 at Lokaleng, Mahikeng, signifies a substantial step towards achieving the government’s vision of constructing an inclusive and prosperous South Africa. It exhibits the power of collaboration, strong leadership, and the prioritization of vital infrastructure in promoting social and economic growth. Future phases of the project will undoubtedly build upon this solid foundation, ushering in a new era of progress for the region and its people.

1. What is Road Z422 in Mahikeng?

Road Z422 is a 15 km low-standard unpaved rural collector road that has been upgraded in Lokaleng, Mahikeng. It is a segment of a 29.5 km road that caters to various rural communities engaged in agricultural activities.

2. How long did it take to complete the first phase of the project?

The first phase of the project took 18 months to complete.

3. How much did the first phase of the project cost?

The first phase of the project cost R123,175,287.20.

4. Who funded the Road Z422 project?

The project received funding from the Equitable Share.

5. What are some benefits of the upgraded Road Z422?

The upgraded road will provide improved connectivity, better access to essential services, and increased safety for all users, ultimately stimulating local economies and contributing significantly to the overall development of the region.

6. How many subcontracting opportunities were created during the project?

Subcontracting opportunities amounting to R20,840,176.07 were created during the project, benefiting 49 subcontractors and representing 32% of the contract value.

7. What was the role of the Tribal Authority in the project?

The Tribal Authority conveyed their gratitude to the department for addressing the community’s needs and participated in the project’s leadership.

8. What does the completion of Phase 1 of Road Z422 signify?

The completion of Phase 1 of Road Z422 represents a significant achievement for the North West Department of Public Works and Roads and the residents of Mahikeng. It symbolizes the government’s commitment to investing in crucial infrastructure that will enhance the lives of its citizens and promote economic growth.

Thabo Sebata

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