R57 Road Extension: A game-changer for Maluti-A-Phofung’s economy

By Emily Setona

QWAQWA – In an exclusive interview with The Guard, Maluti-A-Phofung (MAP) Chief Whip Moeketsi Lebesa shared insights on a transformative infrastructure project that could reshape the region’s economic landscape, the proposed extension of the R57 national road.

The project, discussed In a recent high-level meeting between the Executive Mayor of Maluti-a-Phofung, Malekula Melato, and the Consul-General of China in Johannesburg, Pan Qinjiang, aims to extend the R57 road from its current endpoint in Tseseng Village to Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal. This initiative is expected to significantly boost connectivity, economic activity, and tourism in the region.

Enhancing Connectivity and Economic Growth

The R57 extension will create a direct link between Johannesburg and Underberg, drastically cutting travel time between Gauteng and the Eastern Cape by 12 hours. According to Lebesa, this infrastructure development is a crucial step in attracting foreign and domestic investment to MAP.

“One of the mandates of the current coalition government is to create an environment conducive to economic growth that will attract both domestic and international investors to invest in our local economy. They must see the benefits of investing in our economy,” Lebesa stated.

Melato echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the road extension is part of a broader strategy to position MAP as a key player in regional trade, infrastructure development, and tourism.

“We are confident that our municipality’s unique offerings, combined with the Consul-General’s enthusiasm for cooperation, will yield fruitful partnerships and investments in the near future,” Melato said.

Chinese Expertise in Infrastructure Development

The proposal was well received by Consul-General Pan Qinjiang, who expressed confidence in China’s ability to assist with the project. Melato received an invitation from Qinjiang and requested Lebesa to accompany her and her entourage to this meeting that was held in Johannesburg on 17 March.

“The potential for economic growth in Maluti-A-Phofung is immense, and we see it as a strategic destination for Chinese investments, particularly in the areas of tourism, infrastructure development, and trade,” Qinjiang said.

The Chinese government has a strong track record of executing large-scale infrastructure projects that balance development with environmental sustainability. Given that the road will pass through the Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site—environmental considerations will be crucial.

“The proposed road extension will require careful construction to minimize environmental harm. Fortunately, the Chinese have demonstrated expertise in similar projects within their own country, showcasing their ability to balance development with environmental stewardship,” added Lebesa.

Boosting Tourism and Regional Trade

Beyond improving connectivity, the extended R57 is expected to boost tourism by providing easier access to the Drakensberg region. Tourists from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries will benefit from a faster, more efficient route, increasing footfall to MAP’s cultural and natural attractions.

Upon completion, the road is set to generate significant economic spin-offs for local businesses, from hospitality to agriculture and retail. “This project has the potential to change the economic landscape of our municipality, and we are excited about the opportunities it presents,” Lebesa concluded.

A Step Toward the Future

The meeting between MAP leadership and the Chinese Consul-General marked a pivotal moment in the municipality’s efforts to attract large-scale investment. The proposed R57 extension aligns with the broader vision of fostering economic development, creating jobs, and improving trade routes within South Africa and beyond.

While discussions are still in the early stages, the enthusiasm from both parties signals a promising future. As MAP continues to position itself as an investment destination, projects like this will play a key role in shaping the municipality’s economic trajectory.

For now, the region awaits further developments, with hopes that this ambitious project will soon become a reality.