On 17 February 2026, the Speaker of the Umzimvubu Local Municipality, Cllr Ndanele Mdzinwa, led a Stakeholders’ Engagement at the KwaBhaca Town Hall, joined by representatives from the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), engineering consultant Zutari, and construction company Rumdel, to officially introduce and discuss the upcoming construction of the N2 road project within the KwaBhaca Central Business District (CBD). The construction forms part of the already underway construction of the N2 between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni.
The meeting was mainly to consult with the various stakeholders in KwaBhaca as preparations get underway for one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades in the area. Key in attendance were KwaBhaca ratepayers, local business owners, members of the transport industry (taxi and bus associations), hawkers and residents from across the town.
The municipality together with SANRAL saw it important to conduct this engagement process as it is expected to affect traffic patterns, commercial activity, and daily life in the CBD during the construction phase.
“Because there will be disturbances to the movement of people and interruptions to business operations, we saw it as important to convene this meeting so that community members could raise any concerns they foresee during the implementation of this project,” said Cllr Mdzinwa.
He further confirmed that Rumdel, the appointed contractor, has assured the municipality that necessary preparatory measures will be put in place before construction begins. These include traffic management plans, safety measures, and structured communication with affected stakeholders to minimize inconvenience as far as possible.
The purpose of the meeting was not only to inform, but to engage, giving residents and business owners a platform to voice concerns and propose practical solutions. Issues raised reportedly included access to shops, pedestrian safety, public transport routes, and potential impacts on emergency services.
According to the project outline presented during the meeting, the construction work is expected to be completed within four months with effect from the month of March. While relatively short in duration, the project’s footprint in the CBD means it will require coordinated planning and cooperation from all sectors of the community.
Upon completion, improvements within the KwaBhaca CBD are expected to enhance traffic flow, improve road safety, and stimulate economic activity by making the town more accessible to long distance travellers that pass through the KwaBhaca town.
The Umzimvubu Local Municipality is calling for cooperation, patience, and mutual understanding during the construction period. The municipality reiterates its commitment to keeping the public informed throughout the construction phase and to addressing concerns promptly as they arise.

1. Mr Yamkela Hlehliso from Rumdel outlining the project scope.
2. One of the business representatives, Mr Lesly Soobramoney.