Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Eyaaz
Published on 2024-03-15 08:37:18
Limpopo premier Stan Mathabatha recently addressed the ongoing challenges faced by the R4.1 billion Giyani water project during a town hall election debate hosted by the Mail & Guardian and the University of Limpopo. Mathabatha emphasized the need for collective responsibility between the provincial and national governments in addressing the project’s delays and corruption allegations.
The Giyani water project, commissioned in 2014, aimed to resolve water supply issues in 55 villages in Giyani. However, the project has been plagued by stoppages and corruption, as highlighted in a Special Investigating Unit probe report that revealed tender irregularities leading to a significant increase in project costs.
During the debate, Mathabatha acknowledged the need for accountability but emphasized that the failures should not solely fall on his administration. He assured the audience that efforts to rectify the mistakes were nearing completion and that water would soon be provided to 33 villages in Giyani.
Despite Mathabatha’s efforts to showcase a decline in unemployment rates in Limpopo, members of the audience contested this claim, citing a higher employment rate of 49%. The debate highlighted the overarching issue of unemployment in South Africa and its impact on poverty levels, with approximately 55.5% of the population living below the national poverty line.
Reflecting on the broader issue of unemployment, Mathabatha attributed job losses not only to government policies but also to technological advancements that have reshaped the labor market. He emphasized the importance of developing skills and education to align with the evolving economy.
Panellists at the debate challenged Mathabatha’s perspective on technological advancements, citing examples of countries like the United States where advanced technology coexists with job creation. They urged the government to prioritize job creation initiatives rather than fear automation.
Professor Sam Koma highlighted the impact of past government policies on job losses, noting that the Growth, Employment, and Redistribution policy introduced in 1996 contributed to significant unemployment levels. He emphasized the need for the government to acknowledge these shortcomings and focus on strategies to boost employment opportunities.
In conclusion, the town hall debate shed light on the complex relationship between government policies, technological advancements, and job creation in South Africa. While challenges persist, there is a growing consensus on the need for comprehensive and collaborative efforts to address unemployment and poverty levels in the country. Mathabatha’s commitment to accountability and ongoing efforts to rectify the Giyani water project reflect a step towards addressing critical infrastructure issues in Limpopo.
Read the original article on Mail & Guardian
