South Africa: Sod-turning ceremony marking a ground-breaking affair in the establishment of the much anticipated Phuthaditjhaba Gateway Mega Project launch was held at the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Hall on 01 November 2023 to a jubilant crowd with the actual Sod-turning and ribbon cutting concluding on project site near the University of the Free State Qwaqwa.
The event was attended by dignitaries accompanying Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana together with his entourage FS MEC Human Settlement & Cogta Ketso Makume were MaP Executive Mayor Cllr Masechaba Lakaje-Mosia, Speaker Cllr Mandlenkosi Dlamini, Chiefwhip Cllr Moeketsi Lebesa amongst other members of Council from Maluti a Phofung and Thabo Mofutsanyana District, municipal officials as well as local businesses invested in the project development.
Mayor Lakaje wished the project well and advocated for partnership and cooperation between contractors and local businesses. She urged the community to allow the project to unfold procedurally and pleaded with Qwaqwa Gateway Group to leave no one behind in the economic opportunities that the project will bring to the municipality.
QwaQwa Gateway Group mentioned that the feasibility study has confirmed the enormous positive impact the project will have on the socio-economic landscape of MAP in its entirety.
The project is a new city development model consisting of 9900 prototype housing developments, 7400 bonded houses as well as commercial amenities. The commencement of the project will take place in November 2023, with site handover to the contractor; subsequently, local engagement will commence.
Dukwana greatly emphasized the need for all to go back to the basics and put the needs of the people, especially the marginalized, first and deliver quality basic services as per occupational obligation.
He further indicated that those who are involved in corrupt activities must know that the long arm of the law will capture them one day. He also notably said that “humongous investments of this nature must leave an indelible mark and empower the people holistically and in all economic fraternities not only in Maluti a Phofung, Thaba Nchu, Botshabelo and areas alike.
Amongst messages of support by MEC and Director General Kopung Ralikotsane, Speaker Dlamini proponent for ethical conduct that allows for inclusivity and transparency. He wished for the Maluti, a Phofung community, to benefit for generations to come in this development through business, tourism and social activities forecasted for this area.