It should be noted that these sectors, are to an extent, labour intensive and further investment in them will lead to the creation of jobs and thus reduce poverty. For instance, during the construction period of three to four years, it is estimated that 27 500 temporary jobs will be created and, once the refinery is operational, another 18 500 direct and indirect permanent jobs will be created. Therefore, the Coega refinery serves as an economic catalyst that will contribute significantly to the restoring the Eastern Cape's employment and growth patterns to match those of other regions of the country.