Deputy Speaker, the ACDP notes the petition submitted by the Amadiba Community, requesting that the National Assembly investigate their concerns regarding the N2 Wild Coast Toll Highway Project.
This petition reflects longstanding grievances about consultation, environmental impact, and community displacement.
The ACDP has consistently emphasised that infrastructure development must balance national progress with the rights of local communities. In this regard, I raised the deplorable state of disrepair of the uMzimkhulu Bridge on 25 May and again on 29 May 2025, which to date has caused untold economic hardship to the residents and businesses in the greater Ugu Municipality. So, the concerns of the residents of both the Ugu region and those surrounding the proposed N2 Wild Coast highway must be taken seriously.
The ACDP notes that the Department’s own report highlighting allegations of inadequate consultation, threats to communal land rights, and risks to biodiversity in the Pondoland Centre of Endemism.
We also note that the N2 expansion to the Wild Coast, has the potential to bring untold benefits to the entire region and reduce travel times significantly between Port Edward and Port St Johns/Lusikisiki. That said, poor communication with local people is unacceptable. The Department must engage meaningfully with affected communities, or it may be a point of contention and trouble for years to come.
As Kingdom builders, the ACDP calls for a timetable of engagement accompanied by scheduled reports back to Parliament to ensure accountability. We accept the report.
I thank you.
