Pray the News
CIID commends Transnet but calls for toll gates for manganese trucks-
The Herald - Monday 21 July
Background from the Herald
The Chamber for Infrastructure Investment and Development is a collaborative platform of professionals dedicated to strengthening SA’s infrastructure development, investment facilitation, and municipal project preparation. The Chamber also advocates for sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure practices that protect both economic and environmental interests. In this light, we commend Transnet for securing a 10-year agreement with United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) for the rail transportation of manganese. This agreement, part of the Manganese Export Capacity Allocation (Meca) programme, is a bold and welcome step towards shifting bulk mineral transport from road to rail, a move that supports efficiency, reduces road congestion, and helps safeguard road infrastructure. However, Nelson Mandela Bay continues to suffer severe consequences from the unchecked movement of manganese by heavy trucks, particularly in areas such as Swartkops and Markman, where manganese is stored before shipping. The collapse of road infrastructure, caused by these trucks at every turning point on roads not designed for such weight, is now at critical levels The chamber is calling for the immediate introduction of toll gates specifically for manganese trucks operating in urban areas. The toll revenue will potentially generate millions of rand annually and should be directed towards repairing and maintenance. The chamber further urges authorities to relocate manganese storage facilities to the Coega IDZ, closer to the port and away from residential zones.
Who is UMK?
United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) is a South African mining company established in 2005, operating in the Kalahari manganese field in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality, Northern Cape Province. It is the fourth largest manganese producer in South Africa and a significant exporter, operating in the world’s largest manganese ore deposit, which spans 34 km from Mamatwan Mine in the south to Wessels and Black Rock Mines in the north. UMK is a joint venture between Majestic Silver Trading 40 (Pty) Ltd, a majority black-owned Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) consortium holding 51%, and Renova Manganese Investments (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of the Russian-based Renova Group, holding 49%. The company employs over 100 direct workers and 500 through contractors, with a focus on sustainable mining and socio-economic development.
Who is the CIID?
The Chamber for Infrastructure Investment and Development is an influential advocacy platform in South Africa’s infrastructure sector, focusing on sustainable practices, investment facilitation, and municipal project preparation. Its influence is evident in its ability to propose targeted solutions, such as toll gates and storage relocation, and its alignment with national economic goals. However, its impact is likely limited by its non-regulatory status and dependence on stakeholder cooperation. Its activities include advocating for sustainable infrastructure, facilitating investment, proposing local solutions, promoting collaboration, and supporting socio-economic development.
Prayer Guidelines:
For Righteousness
Scripture: "The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does." (Psalm 145:17, NIV)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are righteous and just in all Your ways. We seek Your guidance over the partnership between Transnet and UMK. Let their dealings be marked by Your righteousness, reflecting integrity, transparency, and fairness. May their agreement honor You by prioritizing the well-being of communities and the nation, free from corruption or self-interest.
For Integrity
"The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." (Proverbs 11:3, NIV).
Prayer: Lord, we pray for the leaders of Transnet and UMK as they implement their 10-year rail transport agreement. Grant them integrity to negotiate and act transparently, free from corruption or favoritism. Protect this partnership from political or foreign influences that could undermine righteousness. Let their contracts reflect honesty and fairness, building trust and delivering benefits to all stakeholders. Amen.
Prayer: Lord, we pray for the leaders of Transnet and UMK as they implement their 10-year rail transport agreement. Grant them integrity to negotiate and act transparently, free from corruption or favoritism. Protect this partnership from political or foreign influences that could undermine righteousness. Let their contracts reflect honesty and fairness, building trust and delivering benefits to all stakeholders. Amen.
For Justice
Scripture: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8, NIV)
Pray for Protection Against Corruption
Scriptural: "The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him." (Proverbs 11:1, NIV)
Prayer: Righteous Judge, we ask You to protect the dealings between Transnet and UMK from corruption and dishonest practices. Expose any hidden agendas or unethical influences, and bring accountability to those entrusted with this partnership. Let their actions reflect honest scales, finding favor with You and serving the public good with transparency and truth. Amen.
Prayer
"Righteous God, we seek Your guidance over the dealings between Transnet and UMK, and the actions of SANRAL. Fill their leaders with integrity, wisdom, and justice, ensuring transparent and fair decisions that benefit communities and honor You. Protect them from corruption, unite stakeholders in humility, and provide resources for sustainable infrastructure. May righteousness prevail in their partnership, restoring roads and fostering hope in Nelson Mandela Bay. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
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