EFF promises to improve lives

EFF provincial chairperson Shadrack Tlhaole said he was ready to take immediate action to improve the lives of Northern Cape residents following the national general elections.

He stated that their strategy focuses on creating jobs, enhancing infrastructure and ensuring sustainable development for the region.

“The EFF proposes to declare the entire Northern Cape as a special economic zone (SEZ). This will include industrial assistance for all companies that create a minimum of 2 000 jobs per investor per area. This initiative is designed to attract significant investment and stimulate job creation, ultimately reducing unemployment and boosting the local economy.”

He pointed out that with the province’s rich mining heritage, the EFF would establish mining development and beneficiation schools in Kimberley.

“This will equip residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in the mining sector effectively. Additionally, the EFF will regulate and promote small-scale mining, particularly in Kimberley, to ensure that local miners benefit from the province's abundant mineral resources.”

Tlhaole added that abandoned mining towns such as Okiep and Pofadder would be rejuvenated into mining-based manufacturing sites to create jobs and revitalise the local economy.

“This initiative aims to transform these neglected towns into vibrant economic hubs. We will also revitalise the local fishing industry near coastal towns such as Hondeklipbaai.”

He stated that the party would rigorously enforce the rights of farm workers and address racial discrimination and exploitation in the agricultural sector.

“Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human right, therefore, the EFF will focus on improving the performance of drinking water systems in the Northern Cape. By 2026, we aim to ensure that the province adheres to drinking water quality compliance standards. Furthermore, we will put an end to water supply disruptions, guaranteeing that all residents have reliable access to safe drinking water.”

Tlhaole promised to address the failing sewage system and poor state of the city’s roads.

“The EFF will ensure the immediate procurement of ambulances and improve hospital safety and infrastructure. We will depoliticise hospital boards to enhance accountability and service delivery, hold to account those responsible for misusing funds in municipal projects, and ensure that infrastructure projects are completed to benefit the community.”

He believed that comprehensive sex education was the key to addressing drug use amongst youths and teenage pregnancies.

“The academic programme of teenage girls should not be interrupted while they are pregnant. Support programs must be implemented at all schools. We will also invest in educational infrastructure to create a conducive learning environment, while also implementing community-based programs to address drug abuse and provide support for rehabilitation.”