It is indeed a pleasure to welcome you to this signing.

Today is a milestone in the partnership with the Dutch government and one we are very thankful for.

The agreement being signed today is a high point in our relationship and is for the benefit of our residents.

The grant being formalised here during the #cocreateSA showcase, will greatly assist the expansion of the MyCiTi bus routes for the communities of Cape Town over the next five to 10 years.

#cocreateSA is a platform for South Africa and our Dutch counterparts to exchange innovations for a sustainable future in an initiative which first began during the World Design Capital 2014.

​In this regard, the City of Cape Town’s own Resilience Strategy will be launched later this month and aims to future-proof our city against climate change shocks.

Back to today’s event, the agreement known as the Orio Project is a collaboration between the City and the Dutch Government for the roll-out of phase 2A of the MyCiTi bus service between Khayelitsha and Wynberg and Claremont.

This funding will go towards new trunk and feeder routes for the MyCiTi buses, bus stops and stations, and a bus depot in Khayelitsha.

It will also assist us in improving the public transport interchanges (PTIs) at Nolungile, Vuyani and Nyanga.

​In changing economic times, governments have to do more with decreasing budgets. This means partnerships with other entities, governments and the private sector become vital in filling the gaps.

This collaboration between the City and the Dutch Government dates back seven years when the City successfully applied for the project to be considered.

In October 2015, a contract was signed for the development phase of the project and a project plan was devised.

We are aware of the challenges of the rail network which has forced more people onto the roads, through the use of taxis and private vehicles.

 

​A well-functioning public transport service is critical for residents.  We are confident that the new route will have a tangible effect on reducing congestion by providing a safe and reliable public transport alternative.

 

The MyCiTi bus service has provided a much-need service to the communities of Cape Town and the expansion is expected to extend this benefit to residents where it is needed most.

I want to express our gratitude to the Dutch Government for their generosity that will see the improvement of public transport in a community where investment is much needed. Thank you.

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