R25 million upgrade to make Thohoyandou CBD safer and friendlier

A development meeting was convened at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Friday, 9 February, coinciding with the official handover of the Thulamela UIF to the Shell and Old KFC Streets Projects in the Thohoyandou CBD.

During the meeting, the significant deterioration of the Thohoyandou Central Business District (CBD) was acknowledges, leading to conflicts between pedestrians and vehicle drivers as well as other issues such as environmental pollution and inefficient resource utilisation.

Following the meeting, Thulamela Mayor Athingozwidivha Sarah Rambuda, Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli and his royal council, contractors, councillors, and civil organisations conducted a site visit to inform the communities and stakeholders about the commencement of the projects. Contracts were awarded to HTE Construction Engineers, Chauke Business Enterprise, and Dawaila Phunga Joint Venture.

According to Mr Nndwamato Tshiila, the spokesperson for the Thulamela Local Municipality, the budget allocated to complete both projects was set at R25 million. This funding was sourced from Thulamela Local Municipality’s own funds as well as grants from the National Department of Treasury.

Mayor Rambuda emphasised that Thulamela residents will benefit significantly from both projects as they will enhance accessibility and connectivity within the Thohoyandou CBD. “The project involves rehabilitating these roads to ensure significantly improved safety and accessibility for residents, emergency vehicles, and essential services. It also includes enhancing stormwater control and upgrading electric streetlights around the Thohoyandou CBD with solar power.”

She further stated that the improved roads would attract more visitors and customers to the area, thereby boosting economic activity.

Date:18 February 2024

By: Silas Nduvheni

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