PARADISE OF PONDOLAND” POISED FOR REVIVAL AS DEPUTY MINISTER ZIKALALA LEADS HARBOUR DEVELOPMENT TALKS IN PORT ST JOHN’S

Article and Pictures by Fanisa Makhubela

Winds of change are blowing through Port St Johns, fondly known as the “Paradise of Pondoland”, as Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, leads a high-level stakeholder engagement in the town. This significant session marks a turning point in Port St Johns’ journey toward economic revitalisation, anchored by the development of a new small harbour and the official handover of the Spatial and Economic Development Framework (SEDF).

DM, joined by local and provincial leaders including Port St Johns Mayor Cllr Cebisa Mazuza, Chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders Inkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso, DPWI Deputy Director-General Luyanda Kafile, and Eastern Cape Head of Department Penelope Penxa, is spearheading a broader push to roll out critical infrastructure in rural and coastal areas. “We are here not just to talk development, but to make it real for the people of Port St Johns. This harbour will unlock opportunities that were once out of reach,” said Zikalala.

The SEDF lays out a phased, multi-million-rand plan to transform the town into a regional hub for tourism, marine industries, and small scale fishing. With the area now officially proclaimed a fishing harbour, the groundwork is set for sustainable investment and long-term economic growth.

Both Mayor Mazuza and Inkosi Gwadiso expressed strong support for the initiative, hailing it as a turning point for the community. “This project brings hope to our people,” said Mayor Mazuza. “We are ready to walk this journey with government and make sure it delivers for every resident.” Inkosi Gwadiso echoed the sentiment, adding, “This development is a long awaited opportunity to restore the dignity and economic strength of our coastal communities. Traditional leaders are fully behind it.”

Beyond harbour infrastructure, plans are in motion to establish a new government precinct to improve service delivery and bring public services closer to residents. The initiative forms part of the District Development Model (DDM) and aligns with the National Development Plan and Operation Phakisa, which collectively aim to unlock South Africa’s oceans economy and redress historic spatial inequalities.

With strong backing from all spheres of government and traditional leaders, the people of Port St Johns can look forward to seeing their coastal gem transform into a thriving economic anchor for the Eastern Seaboard.