Construction at the Mtentu Bridge project in South Africa is in full swing. The community surrounding the construction site is bustling with new energy, with newly built homes lining the area in neat rows.
Smiles light up the faces of local residents. "Thanks to this major project, we now have jobs and steady incomes right on our doorstep. These days, almost every family in the village has built a new home," villagers said.
Since the start of construction, the CCCC project team has actively supported the local community by prioritizing the hiring of nearby residents. More than 2,000 jobs have been created across a wide range of roles, including rebar workers, carpenters, concrete workers, drivers, cleaners, and security staff, enabling local people to earn stable incomes close to home.
"Before, I had to spend hours taking minibuses into the city to look for odd jobs. The work was unstable, exhausting, and barely paid enough to save any money. Now, I can walk to the construction site in just a few minutes. I have a steady monthly income and have learned welding skills. I recently used my savings to renovate my home, and my children finally have their own rooms," said Sipho, a welder on the project.
So far, more than 100 households in nearby villages have built or renovated their homes, giving the community a fresh new look. Many residents have also been able to buy household appliances and even cars, with living standards improving significantly.
The project has also spurred growth in sectors such as catering, retail, and transportation, opening up wider income opportunities for local residents.
Photo shows the Mtentu Bridge project in South Africa