The Eastern Cape Provincial Government held its 31st Executive Council Meeting of the 5th term in the Mbizana Local Municipality on Wednesday, during which it approved the Province's Infrastructure Plan Vision 2030.
Provincial Government Spokesperson, Sonwabo Mbananga said Premier Phumulo Masualle launched a multi-million rand infrastructure program, which includes a series of projects with access roads, a bridge and housing at Nkantolo Village.
This will link Nkantolo and surrounding communities to Mbizana and the N2 Wild Coast road from Kwa-Zulu Natal to East London and Nelson Mandela Bay.
Mbananga said Cabinet also prioritised the approval of small town revitalisation, which includes Mbizana, Alice, Kirkwood, Ngqeleni, Libode, Mount Ayliff, Mount Fletcher and Port St. Johns.
This entails infrastructure upgrading for water, electricity, roads and public buildings, thus attracting private investment with a view to boost business confidence, consumer confidence and stimulate economic growth.
"Through the intergovernmental relations framework, the national Minister for Water and Sanitation and the Premier will be providing political oversight and leadership on the implementation of another strategic catalytic infrastructure project, Mzimvubu multi-purpose Dam, which was also presented this week," Mbananhga said.
He added that, "initial work has already started in consulting key stakeholders, the Kings and Chiefs of the affected communities received the first briefing."
The dam will be prioritised for domestic consumption, irrigation, hydro technology and possible industrialisation.
