THE EASTERN CAPE stands to benefit from a R55-billion investment in the country’s transport infrastructure over the next five years. Speaking during his state of the nation address at the opening of Parliament, president Thabo Mbeki said the investment would include the construction of deep-water port at Coega. There will also be a renewed focus on rail. Mbeki said what he called “massive investments” would be dedicated to upgrading and acquiring railway rolling stock. Improved rail and road infrastructure between the province and the hinterland are seen as critical for the success of the Industrial Development Zones at Coega and East London. The government has earmarked R55-billion for infrastructure investment over the next five years, including improvements to the country’s transport infrastructure. Speaking during his state of the nation address at the opening of Parliament, president Thabo Mbeki said major state corporations planned to invest “at least” R32-billion during 2003. ”This investment will include key economic infrastructure projects such as construction of Ngqura (Coega) port,” said Mbeki. There will also be a renewed focus on rail. “Massive investments will be dedicated to upgrading and acquiring railway rolling stock.” Improved rail links are seen as being one of the keys to the success of the industrial zones at Coega and East London. “Further work will also be done to improve the infrastructure at our major border posts to facilitate movement of people and goods. Necessarily, this must be accompanied by the appropriate staffing of these transit points to eliminate inefficiencies that derive from under-trained personnel,” he said.