President Zuma reveals details of ambitious infrastructure plans

10 February 2012

Transnet, the state-owned transport business, has announced plans to spend 300-billion rand in a bid to improve the transportation of natural materials around the country.

The news has been confirmed by Jacob Zuma, the South African president, who explained that Transet will be making significant improvements to the Durban-Gauteng rail corridor.

In addition to improving the manganese export channel through the port of Ngqura in Port Elizabeth, Mr Zuma explained during his State of the Nation address that Limpopo and Mpumalanga were set to see huge rail infrastructure developments.

"The Market Demand Strategy will result in the creation of more jobs in the South African economy, as well as increased localisation of black economic empowerment," Mr Zuma explained during his speech.

"It will also position South Africa as a regional trans-shipment hub for sub-Saharan Africa and deliver on Nepad's [the New Partnership for Africa's Development] regional integration agenda."

Mr Zuma hopes to arrange a meeting with potential investors and social partners soon to discuss some of the country's infrastructure plans.

Category: General