The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has officially launched a new R2.2 billion construction phase of the N2 Wild Coast Road (N2WCR) in the Eastern Cape. The announcement was made by SANRAL CEO, Reginald Demana, following a comprehensive three-day site visit to inspect ongoing progress on the project.

Demana introduced the WBHO-Edwin Construction Joint Venture, the contractor responsible for Package Four of the N2WCR, to the Lusikisiki community. The construction phase involves a 17km stretch between the Lingeni Intersection and the Msikaba Bridge, marking a significant milestone in the ambitious infrastructure project.

During his visit, Demana also reviewed the construction of the Msikaba and Mtentu mega-bridges, key components of the N2WCR. He emphasized the project’s strategic importance, noting that the N2WCR connects four provinces—Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga—ultimately linking South Africa with Mozambique.

The N2 Wild Coast Road is a critical connectivity corridor, reducing travel distances by 80km between Port St John’s and Port Shepstone and cutting travel time by up to two hours,” said Demana. “This infrastructure will enhance trade efficiency and safety, while also creating significant socio-economic benefits for local communities.

The N2WCR, spanning 110km across the Eastern Cape, has already made a substantial socio-economic impact, with the project estimated to create between 8,000 and 9,000 full-time jobs and up to 28,000 indirect jobs.

The Msikaba Bridge, a pivotal component of the N2WCR, is progressing well, with the inverted-Y pylon structures nearing 90% completion. The bridge deck construction is expected to conclude in early 2025, alongside the installation of cables, which faced delays due to sourcing challenges.

To date, the Msikaba Bridge project has generated R665.6 million in opportunities for local suppliers, service providers, and subcontractors, along with R115 million in wages paid. Additionally, R76 million has been allocated to generic and community training, addressing local needs.

The newly launched Package Four, set to commence in January 2025, is anticipated to create 400 jobs with a contract value of R176 million. SANRAL has committed 35% of the contract value—R700 million—towards Contract Participation Goals to involve local enterprises.

In parallel, construction on Package Five, a R2.5 billion road connecting the Msikaba and Mtentu bridges, began in April 2023 and is slated for completion by late 2027. This phase has generated 445 jobs and engaged 41 targeted enterprises, with substantial investments in community development and skills training.

Demana concluded his visit with a roundtable discussion with the Wild Coast Corridor Business Chamber, addressing concerns about meaningful economic transformation and urging intensified monitoring and evaluation to maximize the project’s transformative impact.

SANRAL’s Regional Manager for the Southern Region, Mbulelo Peterson, announced that the design for Packages 1, 2, and 3 of the N2WCR is nearing completion, promising further opportunities for local involvement as the project progresses.