The rehabilitation and reconstruction of the A2 road from Moshoeshoe I International Airport turn-off to Mafeteng traffic circle has kicked off.
The project is expected to improve road infrastructure, facilitate trade and create employment opportunities for Basotho.
This week’s sod-turning ceremony marked the beginning of the project, which will be undertaken by Sinohydro Corporation Limited.
Minister of Finance and Development Planning Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane said roads were essential for facilitating trade and commerce, particularly as the country works towards stabilising its economy.
She said improved road infrastructure would ease the movement of people and goods, making business activities easier while creating employment opportunities and improving livelihoods.
She noted that government’s objective was to create meaningful jobs that would enable Basotho to earn an income and provide for their families.
Dr Matlanyane stated that the contractor was expected to ensure that the work met the required specifications and contractual obligations.
The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Matjato Moteane, urged the contractor to prioritise quality, ensure road durability and involve local communities in the project.
Speaking at the event to introduce the contractor in Mafeteng on Monday, Moteane said some roads had to be repaired because they had not been properly constructed in the past.
Moteane urged the contractor to prioritise workers’ welfare and source equipment, machinery and other resources locally wherever possible.
Road Directorate Chief Executive Officer, Linehella Nts’ere, said the rehabilitation would fix potholes that had made travelling along the road difficult, while improving connectivity and supporting economic activities in the district.
