South Africa: African Infrastructure Development Gains Momentum

19-09-2014
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Pretoria — Infrastructure development on the continent has gained momentum, with a special office to be set up soon, to champion this cause.

Cabinet on Thursday announced that it has approved the establishment of the Project Management Office for the African Union Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative, which is led by President Jacob Zuma.

This is an African-driven infrastructure programme, which is meant to champion cross-border infrastructure projects.

"[This] will unlock the economic potential of the continent and provide development opportunities for communities, cities and regions," said Cabinet in a statement.

Cabinet approved the establishment of the special office with the support of the relevant government departments.

The Project Management Office will be supported by the setting up of an Inter-Ministerial Committee on the AU Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative in South Africa.

The committee will be chaired by the Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Jeff Radebe.

South Africa is currently carrying out its National Infrastructure Plan, which intends to transform the economic landscape, while simultaneously creating significant numbers of new jobs, and strengthening the delivery of basic services. The plan also supports the integration of African economies.