Steelpoort:Limpopo Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has called upon traditional leaders and local communities to engage with the Fetakgomo-Tubatse Special Economic Zone (SEZ), highlighting its potential to significantly enhance mineral processing and job creation in Limpopo.
According to South African Government News Agency, the government is intensifying efforts to draw investment, promote mineral beneficiation, and generate employment in Limpopo. Minister Tau, speaking at a ministerial event in the Sekhukhune District, emphasized that the establishment of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ in May represents a crucial development in the industrial advancement of Limpopo and South Africa.
Strategically located in the Steelpoort industrial hub, the SEZ is designed to bolster mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, renewable energy, and related industrial activities. The zone encompasses approximately 1010 hectares of land obtained through a lease agreement with the Dithamaga Trust. Tau noted that South Africa's rich reserves of various minerals are not fully utilized domestically, as the country still exports large quantities of raw and semi-processed minerals while importing finished products.
The SEZ is set to support mineral processing, metal fabrication, manufacturing, renewable energy, logistics, and related services. It has an investment pipeline valued at R52.6 billion, projected to create about 8000 jobs in the short to medium term and potentially 20,000 jobs over a decade. The project aims not only to attract investment but also to strengthen connections between mining operations and local manufacturers.
Significant progress has been made in terms of regulatory and infrastructure milestones, with approvals secured for township establishment and environmental authorization. The development of Phase 1 infrastructure, spanning approximately 75 hectares, has begun, and site clearance is complete. The Limpopo Provincial Government has allocated R445 million for bulk infrastructure development, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa supports project preparation and implementation.
Electricity infrastructure planning is underway, with Eskom conducting detailed design and technical assessments, and bulk water and water-treatment works are in the concept and viability stage. Minister Tau encouraged mining companies to integrate local manufacturers into their supply chains and consider investments that could enhance industrial activity in Steelpoort.
Partnerships with local educational institutions are expected to foster skills development and prepare youth for employment opportunities stemming from new investments. The development of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is part of South Africa's broader SEZ programme, which aims to attract investment, expand industrial capacity, and promote economic growth. Currently, South Africa's SEZs host 234 private companies with a combined investment value exceeding R47 billion and have generated 134,478 jobs, including 32,904 permanent positions.
Source South African Government News Agency