EU Projects - Sustainable and Replicable
Nearly 40% of the R113 million in European Union funds allocated to the Project has been expended on infrastructure, capacity building and other projects in Cato Manor, making a major impact on the quality of life of the local communities. The guiding principles behind the EU's projects are sustainability and replicability. The focus is therefore on providing commercial infrastructure as well as much needed social facilities such as schools, sportsfields, administrative facilities and community halls. At the same time EU-funded projects are delivering capacity building, skills training and support programmes, thus creating opportunities for residents to enter the job market or establish their own businesses.

Solutions
The solutions being pioneered in Cato Manor will be recorded in a series of special reports to be made available to other projects in South Africa and abroad, ensuring that maximum benefit accrues from the innovations and lessons learned here. The solutions developed in Cato Manor include: the provision of replicable school types which can be developed quickly and at reduced cost; the provision of flexible community buildings adaptable to constantly changing needs; and the development of a broad stream of skills and vocational training programmes offered to local residents. Another innovative approach involves providing guarantees which make it possible for finance institutions to extend small home loans to Cato Manor residents. These loans are used by low income home owners to make improvements or additions and thus build up their personal assets and resources.

Economic opportunities
Two large industrial estates being established at key points in Cato Manor will attract larger businesses into the area. The skills training and small business development programmes will create many opportunities for local residents to find jobs, network with established businesses and enter the formal economy. These projects are integral to the CMDA's overall objective to create a self-sufficient and viable community with real economic prospects.