Director-General of Transport Mr George Mahlalela
CEO OF South African National Road Agency Limited (SANRAL) Mr Nazir Alli
Managing Director of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) Ms Monhla Hlahla
Distinguished guests
Ladies and gentlemen
Good morning!
While we have spent R7,2 billion on the construction of the King Shaka International Airport, we are here this morning to officially launch another very important part of this mega project, and without which we would not be able to get to the airport – the road interchange.
This is what we mean when we say the construction of an airport stimulates development and growth around the surrounding area. During the construction of the King Shaka International Airport, the South African National Roads Agency Ltd (SANRAL) took on the responsibility to provide this interchange. The interchange will ensure direct access to the King Shaka International Airport and Dube Tradeport facilities.
This project is a demonstration of a close partnership between ACSA and SANRAL. It is an excellent example of cooperation between the two entities who worked together in the planning and provision of the airport and road infrastructure. Constructing this interchange itself was no small feat but it also contributed to the socio-economic development of the province.
Socio-economic impact
The road infrastructure to the King Shaka International Interchange cost approximately R290 million. During construction, at least 183 jobs were created of which 79 were local. In addition, we spent R17,2 million on job opportunities up to the end of January 2010, of which R4.3 million was spent on temporary jobs from local communities.
We are pleased to note that the project created opportunities for the employment of four black small medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) who earned more than R3,4 million. There were seven Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) suppliers who supplied materials to the value of R2 million.
We further note that the approach we took was to train workers in more than just construction-related activities but also in traffic safety, construction, first aid, legal liability and HIV and AIDS awareness.
As a result of this project, we are pleased that we have not just left lasting infrastructure for the people of KwaZulu-Natal, but we have also contributed to the creation of a working and enterprising South Africa and to a more socially aware nation that can take care of itself.
We express our appreciation to Nazir Alli, the Chief Executive Officer of SANRAL and his team, as well as the Board of SANRAL under the chairmanship of Mr Lot Ndlovu for their great work!
Thank you.
Source: Department of Transport
