N2 Wild Coast Project Boosts Jobs and Conservation in Lusikisiki!

LUSIKISIKI – The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) and the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) visited Lusikisiki to check on the progress of the N2 Wild Coast Biodiversity Offset Project on the 2nd of July 2025.

This important project aims to balance building roads, protecting nature, and helping local communities along the beautiful Wild Coast.

Xolani Skenjana, the ECPTA N2 Project Manager, shared, “We are proud to lead this initiative with SANRAL. It’s not just about conservation; it’s also about making sure communities benefit from the development happening around them while preserving our natural heritage for future generations.”

So far, the project has created jobs for 105 young people who are working to clean up alien and invasive plants in three areas: Mbotyi, Thahle, and Mnyameni.

One of the workers, Nontsapho Satsha, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I last worked in 2021, and this opportunity came at the right time when I needed it the most. As a single parent, I need to provide for my kids.”

Additionally, local small businesses are benefiting from the project by providing catering, cleaning, accommodation, office signage, and security services.

This shows the project’s commitment to supporting local development.

The N2 Wild Coast Biodiversity Offset Project covers eight key sites and is a big step toward protecting the province’s natural beauty while boosting the local economy.

Site visits will continue, with community engagement and collaboration at the heart of this exciting initiative!