Repairs to internal roads will ensure the safe conveyance of stock within the harbour.
This project is a prime example of the importance of infrastructure development to spur on economic activity and much needed job creation for our citizens.
The removal of sunken vessels programme was been completed with a total of 29 vessels removed at various harbours, 15 of those vessels were removed at the Hout Bay Harbour.
DPWI grasped at the opportunity at the Hout Bay harbour removal of sunken vessels project which allowed 9 informal divers (many which were former poachers) including 1 woman being trained as Class 3 Commercial Divers to assist with the work for the Hout Bay Harbour removal of sunken vessels project. The removal of sunken vessels project in Hout Bay alone created a total of 110 jobs and empowered 11 SMMEs to the value of approximately R4,5 million.
The development of harbours will allow coastal communities access to the sea as well as an opportunity to grow the oceans economy in turn creating jobs and growing these coastal towns that were deprived of proper marine infrastructure for many years. This project has brought immense benefit in terms of job creation and now that the project has been completed, we hope it will increase investment and enable greater economic activity, for surrounding communities and the fishing industry value chain.
We are making a plea to all surrounding communities to see these upgraded harbours as their harbours and to work with the department to ensure the harbours are protected from vandalism and that this critical infrastructure benefits the broader community and to grow the oceans economy.
Source: Government of South Africa