‘Stakeholders Must Collaborate for Fruitful Economic Benefits’

The Citizen Economic Empowerment Council (CEEC) has called for all stakeholders to remain committed to collaboration and innovation, ensuring that collective efforts yield lasting benefits for the economy and the nation.

Weighing in on the E2.5 billion road project for the Siphofaneni–Sithobela–Maloma–Nsoko and Maloma–Siphambanweni corridors, CEEC Chairman Lincoln Motsa emphasised the importance of creating an environment conducive to investment and growth, where businesses can flourish and individuals can achieve their potential.

In light of the provisions under the CEEC Act No. 18 of 2023, Motsa stated that the Council supports all efforts to ensure the road project benefits citizen-owned businesses. He expressed pride in what he termed an ongoing robust engagement among all relevant stakeholders, adding that they firmly believe a win-win solution will be reached for all parties involved.

“The Citizens Economic Empowerment Council, as mandated by the Citizen Economic Empowerment Act No. 18 of 2023, seeks to empower citizen-owned businesses through economic empowerment measures such as preferential procurement,” Motsa said.

Part IV of the Act, under Article 17 relating to procurement principles, states:

“All procurement shall be conducted in a manner which promotes economy, efficiency, transparency, accountability, fairness, competition, and value for money.”

In Article 19, the Act further provides that:

“Contracts for construction or operation of public infrastructure and other public goods on the basis of private investment, and contracts for service concessions, shall be awarded in accordance with the principles and objectives of the Act, government policy, and other relevant laws including the Construction Industry Act, 2011 or its successor.”

The chairman also expressed sincere appreciation to government for its leadership in infrastructure development, stating that such initiatives are crucial in enhancing the nation’s ability to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

He noted that investments in infrastructure not only facilitate connectivity and efficiency, but also play a pivotal role in creating employment opportunities, uplifting communities, and driving sustainable economic growth.

“As we move forward, it is essential that all stakeholders remain committed to collaboration and innovation, ensuring that our collective efforts yield lasting benefits for the economy and society at large.
By fostering an environment conducive to investment and growth, we can create a thriving landscape where businesses can flourish and individuals can achieve their potential,” said Motsa.