/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The DA in Okhahlamba has learnt that the Chair of the Transport Portfolio committee Ms RM Lesoma , has requested that the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport (DoT) present a comprehensive status report on Okhahlamba region's roads by 22 August 2023.

The DA in Okhahlamba’ s persistent efforts to secure a safe and efficient road network have spanned several years. The Okhahlamba region plays host to both visiting tourists and a local agriculture sector that heavily relies on a functional road network to sustain employment opportunities in an otherwise economically challenged area.

Despite numerous rounds of consultations and dialogues with all spheres of government within KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the DA found itself compelled to rally local residents and petition Parliament to intervene in its oversight capacity. Taking action, the Parliamentary Transport Portfolio committee partnered with communities to hold the KZN Government accountable for its responsibilities. This culminated in a visit to Okhahlamba and a report by the Portfolio Committee to Parliament on findings that highlighted the many shortfalls of the Department of Transport.

Following intervention by Parliament residents saw some movement on the ground. In a blaze of excitement and flashing blue lights, Sipho Hlomuka, the KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety, and Liaison, appointed a contractor to carry out urgent repairs to the pivotal R74 on September 13, 2022.

However, the optimism surrounding this initiative quickly dwindled as construction sites fell silent mere months after work started and with only a small portion of the work on these vital projects done. Faced with the need for solutions, we once again turned to Parliament for assistance.

In an effort to get to the bottom of why the R74 road projects have stalled for this long, the DA has also initiated inquiries into the potential splurging of funds towards these tenders, addressing pertinent questions to the Minister of Transport.

The DA in uThukela remains committed to upholding its role as a watchdog, ensuring that the faltering ANC administration in KZN is held answerable for its obligations.

Issued by Councillor Thys Janse van Rensburg - DA uThukela Chairperson