Date Published : 2026/02/23 | Article

Mnquma MPAC Cracks the Whip on R33 Million Road Projects to Safeguard Public Funds

Mnquma MPAC Cracks the Whip on R33 Million Road Projects to Safeguard Public Funds

The Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) of Mnquma Local Municipality has intensified its oversight efforts, conducting a high-level inspection of major infrastructure projects valued at over R33 million across the municipality.

Led by MPAC Chairperson, Councillor Zikhethele Mnqokoyi, alongside councillors and senior municipal officials, the oversight visit on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, focused on both completed and ongoing projects aimed at improving mobility, strengthening local economic activity, and enhancing road safety.

The committee visited three strategic projects currently reshaping the municipality s transport network:

· The 9km Jojweni to Mzitheni Access Road in Ndabakazi, constructed at a cost of R9 million.

· The 1km street paving project at Ext 15 Ring Road (Ematankini) in Ward 4, valued at R8.8 million. This project includes nearly 500 metres of concrete slab paving, interlocking block paving, stormwater reticulation and an improved drainage system to curb flooding.

· The 1.4km Ibika Taxi Route (Phase 1) spanning Wards 5, 6 and 7, costing R15.5 million, with completion scheduled for April 2026.

The Jojweni Mzitheni and Ext 15 projects are expected to be finalised by the end of February 2026, weather permitting.

Speaking during the inspection, Cllr Mnqokoyi reaffirmed the committee s firm stance on accountability and fiscal discipline.

As MPAC, we remain resolute in ensuring that every cent of public funds delivers tangible value to our communities. Continuous monitoring is non-negotiable. Projects must meet approved specifications, adhere to timelines, and provide quality workmanship that stands the test of time,” said Mnqokoyi.

Beyond improved road conditions, the projects have delivered significant socio-economic benefits, creating hundreds of short-term employment opportunities and supporting thousands of household dependents across Mnquma. Residents have welcomed the developments, expressing optimism about improved public transport efficiency, particularly for taxi commuters, as well as long-term economic gains.

The committee emphasised that strengthened oversight is central to restoring public confidence, preventing project delays, and ensuring that infrastructure investments translate into durable assets for communities.

Through these site inspections, Mnquma MPAC has sent a clear message: accountability, quality and value for money remain at the heart of service delivery.