On Wednesday it was reported that the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) is set to access a R7 billion loan from the New Development Bank (NDB) to fund major upgrades to the country’s transportation infrastructure.
Sanral CEO Reginald Demana confirmed that final approval is pending legal and regulatory processes, including a legal opinion from the state law adviser and foreign exchange clearance from the South African Reserve Bank.
The funding has been earmarked for a R12.7 billion upgrade of four major freeways, alongside additional national road projects.
The deal marks a significant boost for infrastructure development following the government’s recent resolution of issues surrounding Sanral’s controversial e-tolling system.
South Africans are sceptical
However, South Africans are sceptical as to whether the money would in fact be used to improve roads and highways around the country.
Below, just a handful of the comments posted from disbelieving South Africans:
Where is Ramaphosa & his band of ANC bandits building his next “BRICS” mansion? – Trevor
Only 1 million is left as we speak – Victor
New swimming pool for Cyril – Anton
The only road fixed will be to the bank – Ingrid
Ready, steady loot – Nick
Gonna fix there pockets – Faadhil
Obviously 70% is going to Ramaphosa’s pocket – Misheck
We can be assured that 70 to 80 percent will be filling the pockets of the gravy cabal – Faried
Are they nuts giving South Africa money – Heather
More likely to fix the roads to fat cats villa’s in Dubai – Ken
From deadlock to green light
In 2019, Sanral’s attempt to access funding from the NDB faltered due to the National Treasury’s concerns over legacy debt linked to the now-scrapped Gauteng e-toll system.
That system had been introduced to finance freeway expansions in the country’s economic hub but faced public and political backlash.
With the tolling matter now resolved, the state has approved a R16.5 billion debt ceiling for the agency, clearing the path for more infrastructure borrowing.
BRICS-backed infrastructure boost
The New Development Bank, established in 2015 by the BRICS bloc (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), aims to support infrastructure and sustainable development projects across member and emerging economies.
The loan to Sanral highlights the growing role of BRICS-aligned institutions in supporting strategic infrastructure investments in South Africa.
Once all approvals are secured, the loan is expected to accelerate progress on much-needed freeway upgrades that support trade, mobility, and economic growth.
Key freeway upgrades to be funded by the loan
According to Sanral, the loan specifically targets critical economic corridors, namely:
- N2 – especially crucial sections in KwaZulu-Natal that support port access and regional commerce
- N3 – the primary trade route between Johannesburg and Durban, vital for freight movement
- N1 – a central north-south artery running through Gauteng and beyond
These upgrades will include adding lanes, resurfacing pavement, and rehabilitating related infrastructure such as bridges and intersections.
Are you confident the money will in fact be used to improve rods in SA?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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