In the Eastern Cape, this commitment finds expression in our efforts to leverage the state’s capital portfolio to improve the socioeconomic conditions of people and change the face of our beautiful province. Within this context, the department of public works and infrastructure carries a key mandate as the coordinator and custodian of public infrastructure in the province. Embedded in this responsibility is a fundamental imperative to drive skills development as a foundation for sustainable growth.
To do this, the department has established skills development centres in districts across the province. These include centres in Maluti (Alfred Nzo), Mthatha (OR Tambo), KwaMaqoma (Amathole), Zwelitsha (Buffalo City), Struandale (Nelson Mandela Bay), Steynsburg (Joe Gqabi), and Sijongaphambili (Chris Hani). Collectively, these centres serve as incubators for artisanal skills development, empowering young people with the technical capabilities needed to meaningfully participate in the economy.
Building on this solid foundation, the department of public works is now finalising the construction of the Makhanda Artisan Development Centre in the Sarah Baartman district municipality, representing a total investment of R49m. This centre stands to reinforce our commitment to massive infrastructure-led development and human capital advancement. Notably, the department achieved a cost saving of R18.3m on the project by using the expertise of its internal professional capacity.
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The project was executed through the efforts of three construction project managers, four architects, three quantity surveyors, three electrical engineers, and three engineers, all part of the department’s skilled workforce. This demonstrates the value of strengthening internal capacity and reducing reliance on external consultants, ensuring public funds are efficiently used to benefit our people.
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