Sihle Zikalala Sets Six-Month Deadline for Completion of Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court

Following a site inspection as part of Operation Siyahlola on Tuesday, Zikalala confirmed that the court is expected to be finished by February next year.

Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, has announced a six-month deadline for the completion of the delayed Soshanguve Magistrate's Court in Tshwane. Following a site inspection as part of Operation Siyahlola on Tuesday, Zikalala confirmed that the court is expected to be finished by February next year.

Operation Siyahlola, aimed at addressing and accelerating stalled Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) projects, has identified the Soshanguve Magistrate's Court as a priority. The construction, which began in 2019, has faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in project personnel, resulting in a significant portion of the work being carried out by department staff.

Zikalala emphasized the program's role in overcoming project delays: "Through Operation Siyahlola, we inspect departmental projects, focusing on those that are delayed. We intervene to fast-track their implementation and ensure new projects are initiated, providing essential infrastructure for communities."

The Soshanguve Magistrate's Court project is divided into two phases: the construction of additional accommodation and the renovation of the existing court. The new accommodation is 89% complete, and renovation of the old court will commence once this phase is finalized. The project, initially set for completion in 2022, now has a revised deadline of February 2025.

Zikalala also highlighted key areas for improvement uncovered by the Siyahlola programme, including better integration of local community leaders, enhanced transparency, and increased employment opportunities for local residents. He called for a holistic approach to project management, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts among all professionals involved.

The Deputy Minister's commitment to addressing these challenges underscores the government's focus on delivering vital infrastructure and building capacity within the DPWI.

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