Mtentu Bridge a Transformative Economic Opportunity for the Mpondo Kingdom
by HRH Stella Sigcau
3 November 2025
On 29 October 2025, King Silosohlanga kaDakhile Sigcau paid a visit to the Mtentu Bridge construction site as part of his ongoing outreach programme in the Mpondo Kingdom.
Accompanying the King were a diverse group of stakeholders, including Chiefs, Headmen, Community Leaders, representatives from NGOs, and members of the business community. This visit formed part of a broader series of engagements, with the King also scheduled to visit other strategic infrastructure projects such as the Msikaba Bridge, as well as participate in the C20 forum in November 2025, following its establishment as an official G20 engagement group in 2013.
Major progress has been observed at the Mtentu Bridge and across the wider N2 Wild Coast Toll Road, Package 5 project. Reflecting on these advancements, King Silosohlanga kaDakhile Sigcau emphasised that the development stands as more than just an engineering accomplishment. In his words, “This is not merely an engineering feat; it is a tangible symbol of development and progress for the AmaMpondo Kingdom and the entire Eastern Cape.” The King’s remarks highlight the project’s significance as a catalyst for growth and a testament to the region’s forward momentum.
The Mtentu Bridge is set to be one of the highest in Africa, along with the connecting road of Package 5. In his speech during the visit, King Sigcau stated that this project represented a critical investment in the Mpondo Kingdom including through:
* Connectivity and Access: This road will drastically reduce travel time, bringing our people closer to economic opportunities, essential services, and markets. It will finally unlock the vast potential for tourism, agriculture, and commerce that has long been dormant along our beautiful Wild Coast.
* Economic Upliftment: I am particularly encouraged by the commitment to local labour and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprise (SMME) participation in these projects. This ensures that the wealth created here flows directly into the pockets of our communities, providing jobs, skills development, and dignity. This is the true measure of success—a project that builds not just bridges, but sustainable livelihoods.
* Partnership: The scale of this achievement is a testament to the power of a working partnership between the government, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), the construction teams, and—most importantly—the local communities. We must continue to foster this cooperation to ensure the project's smooth, timely, and successful completion.
He commended all the engineers, workers, and community representatives for their dedication and hard work. “Your efforts are directly paving the way for a more prosperous future for our children. Let this development serve as a powerful catalyst. I urge the AmaMpondo people, particularly our youth, to embrace the opportunities that this infrastructure brings," he said. He urged young people to prepare themselves through education and skills to become the future drivers and beneficiaries of this new economic landscape.
The legacy of the AmaMpondo Kingdom is one of resilience and vision. These projects affirm a place for the Mpondo Kingdom in a modern, connected South Africa while preserving the sanctity of the traditional lands.
The Mtentu Bridge and N2 Wild Coast Toll Road, Package 5 Project, are expected to generate substantial job opportunities within the region. By prioritising the engagement of local labour, the project will empower Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) as well as local businesses, ensuring that the economic benefits are felt directly by the surrounding communities.
This infrastructure development will also attract much-needed investment, laying the foundation for improved quality of life. In addition, it is designed to support sustainable development by fostering long-term economic growth and resilience within the area. The combined effect of job creation, business empowerment, and investment will contribute to lasting prosperity for the communities along the Wild Coast.