Msikaba Bridge delays linked to steel sector challenges, completion set for 2029

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02-04-2026
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NovaNews
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Motorists will have to wait until 2029 for the completion of the Msikaba Bridge, as construction delays continue to affect the flagship South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) project.

SANRAL Media Relations Manager, Lwando Mahlasela, said the multi-billion-rand Msikaba Bridge project was previously scheduled for completion in March 2025, but a revised timeline has been submitted following construction delays.

“SANRAL trusts that the public appreciates the complex nature and scale of this infrastructure project, and we hope the public will continue to support the development of critical public infrastructure,” said Mahlasela.

Explaining to Nova News, Mahlasela said that the bridge is a key component of the N2 Wild Coast Toll Road Project, a National Strategic Infrastructure Project (SIP) that also forms part of the Presidential Stimulus Package.

“The Msikaba River Bridge project has assumed international status, not only by having international firms in both the Contractor’s and Engineering Consultant’s joint venture entities, but by its sheer size and prestige in the engineering environment on the continent,” he explained.

Set to span the Msikaba River gorge approximately 20km north-east of Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, the Msikaba Bridge will become Africa’s longest cable-stayed bridge. The structure will rise 192m above the valley floor, with a 580m-long main span supported by two 127m-high pylons.

It will also be the third-highest bridge in Africa, with a deck height of 194 metres.

Mahlasela attributed the delays primarily to challenges in South Africa’s steel fabrication sector.

“The primary challenges relate to cash flow and production constraints, resulting in slower progress. This is largely linked to the fabrication of deck segments at Highveld in Mpumalanga,” he said.

“The project is currently experiencing the impact of the partial collapse of South Africa’s steel fabrication sector,” Mahlasela explained, mentioning the collapse of key industry players including Aveng Steel Fabricators (formerly DSE), Genrec Engineering, and Endeto.

He emphasised that the contract remains intact and binding, with sufficient budget allocated to continue the works.

Once completed, Mahlasela said, the Msikaba Bridge is expected to transform travel between Durban and East London, shortening the total distance by approximately 69km to 85km and reducing travel time by between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on vehicle type.

The new route has been designed to be shorter and flatter than existing roads, which will reduce strain on vehicles, especially heavy freight, and lower the risk of accidents associated with steep, winding roads.

Mahlasela added that the bridge would have a broader impact beyond improved travel times. He said it would serve as a vital link for communities historically separated by the impassable Msikaba River gorge, improving access to essential government services, healthcare, and educational facilities.

“By connecting local markets to larger trade routes between the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, the bridge is expected to stimulate tourism and agricultural development in the Pondoland region,” he added.