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These projects are expected to create numerous jobs, ranging from short-term positions to full-time employment opportunities, significantly impacting local communities. – Limpopo premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba.

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Sizwe sama Yende

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Limpopo province has come out of its investment conference R120.3 billion richer and now bracing itself to implement life-changing green energy projects.

Delegates at the conference last week pledged the huge investments for mega projects in solar energy, shopping centres, industrial development and township development.

The amount will see the construction of the following projects:

·      R66 billion solar energy project between Musina-Makhado SEZ and the Fetakgomo Tubatse SEZ;

·      R36 billion for solar farm in Musina Makhado SEZ by Kona Maanda, another R10 billion for solar plant in the same facility;

·      R7 billion for a solar plant in Giyani and Mopani by Giyani Solar;

·      R2,8 billion solar project near Burgersfort by Mkhufi;

·      Shopping centres and industrial development in Polokwane for R4 billion by Networth Group;

·      R12,5 billion for Mafolo Project for township development near Burgersfort.

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has extended gratitude to the business sector and industry leaders who have partnered with the province.

"These pledges are an important step in transforming Limpopo's economic landscape and we are confident that this partnership will bring substantial benefits to the people of Limpopo who need access to enhanced services and opportunities," Ramathuba said. 

She said that the pledged investments were aimed at fuelling priority areas for Limpopo's development, including green energy initiatives, critical infrastructure projects, and catalytic ventures that will stimulate industrial growth and support the establishment of industrial parks. 

“These projects are expected to create numerous jobs, ranging from short-term positions to full-time employment opportunities, significantly impacting local communities,” Ramathuba said.

The implementation of these projects, said the premier, would start from November 2024 and continue through to October 2025. 

“This commitment from the business sector shows the strong support for the province's 7th administration and its focus on sustainable development and economic resilience,” Ramathuba said.

The conference discussed Limpopo’s emerging role in the green economy, particularly through solar power and green hydrogen initiatives.

Industry experts and renewable energy companies also  discussed the province’s capacity to generate clean energy, which will contribute to a more sustainable future for Limpopo.

The number of tourism opportunities in eco-tourism, sustainable resorts, and green-certified hotels are expected to rise with Limpopo’s unique positioning as a hub for green energy.

The Musina-Makhado SEZ, which remains at the forefront of Limpopo’s industrial transformation, was also part of the discussion. The SEZ is designed to facilitate business operations, offer investment incentives, and ensure smooth access to key logistics corridors.