Infrastructure 'vital for economic growth' in South Africa

31 July 2009

Investments in new infrastructures are crucial for economic growth in South Africa, it has been asserted.

The World Bank has hosted workshops examining how a small group of municipalities representing less than six per cent of the land house more than half the population and produce around 80 per cent of the country's wealth.

Policymakers, development specialists and local government leaders met to discuss how these areas can be enhanced across the board.

Lead infrastructure specialist at the World Bank Matthew Glasser explained the workshops were about improving service delivery in urban and rural spaces.

"In this time of economic contraction, it is important that we focus on the role of cities because they will provide the foundation for renewed growth and productivity that are needed to finance services for all South Africans," he said.

The sessions also highlighted the importance of South Africa borrowing money for such projects strategically and based on long-term physical and financial planning.

Some 186 member countries make up part of the World Bank.

Category: General