Middelburg – The Sikhululiwe village near Arnot can now enjoy a new road after a decade-long wait. Mafube Coal, in partnership with the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport, handed over a 3,4 km road about a week ago, on 17 October 2025.
“Better access means better possibilities for everyone. We have no doubt that it will be easy for people to market,” said Mafube Coal’s General Manager Tamara Qwatekana.
The mine stated that it spent about R54 million to construct the new road, replacing the old gravel road that posed challenges for passengers and motorists during rainy seasons.
The reason behind the construction was to improve quality life for the residents from 400 households by providing easier access to essential services, reducing travel time, accidents and vehicle damage. Some community members recounted how they were fired from their jobs as they’d occasionally arrive late at work when the road was muddy and slippery.
At least 15 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises benefited, including another additional 15 local residents who received temporary employment during the construction phase of the road. This road provides direct and permanent connection to the R104 that links Middelburg and Belfast.
Qwatekana encouraged everyone to use the road safely and not to cut the fence next to the road. MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport Thulasizwe Thomo urged the community not to burn the road if there are any service delivery or grievances marches.
Ward 7 Councillor Iddy Mahlangu echoed Thomo’s sentiment. “When destroying the road or burning it, it must come to mind that you are destroying R54 million,” he said.
