Road projects create hundreds of jobs across Free State

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26-08-2026
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Biznews.com
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A 20-month, R76 million road project between Kroonstad and Steynsrus has created 380 jobs while providing opportunities for local businesses, according to Free State MEC for community safety, roads and transport Jabu Mbalula.

Mbalula was briefing the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Mangaung (18/8), when he highlighted the impact of the project on communities along the route.

He said the project had not only improved the condition of the road but had also contributed to local economic development, with businesses in both Kroonstad and Steynsrus benefiting through subcontracting opportunities.

“We are pleased that this project has gone without any disruptions. The road is in great condition and that is obviously great for our motorists,” said Mbalula.

He said 380 jobs had been created through the project, with many of the positions going to women.

Additionally, a total of 21 local companies were also subcontracted, including 11 from Steynsrus and 10 from Kroonstad.

According to Mbalula, the work included resealing, asphalt overlaying, patching, road marking and the installation of road signs.

He said the project demonstrated the department’s commitment to creating opportunities for local businesses while addressing unemployment and poverty in the province.

The R82 Koppies-Sasolburg Road project has also contributed to job creation, with 449 jobs created.

Mbalula said many of those employed on the project were women.

“We are quite deliberate about eradicating joblessness and poverty and these projects have assisted us in alleviating the rampant poverty that we are faced with,” he said.

He added that he had engaged with people who had benefited from the projects, saying they had expressed their gratitude for the employment opportunities.

“As government, that is a reaffirmation of what we have promised our people, which is a better life,” Mbalula concluded.