Afro-Zonke, a leading industrial company, has commitmented to investing R2.1 billion in the establishment of a state-of-the-art chlor-alkali plant in the Midvaal area of Gauteng. The manufacturing facility is expected to have a production capacity of 50 000 dry metric tons per annum and will focus on the production of essential products such as caustic soda, chlorine, industrial hydrochloric acid, sodium hypochlorite, calcium chloride, and food-grade carbon dioxide.
The Chairman of Afro-Zonke Group, Mr Sthembiso Mkhize expressed his enthusiasm for the project.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with Gauteng’s vision and strategies to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and combat issues of poverty and unemployment in the province. Additionally, the establishment of this plant will significantly reduce the country’s dependence on caustic lye imports,” says Mkhize.
The project pledge, with an anticipated commissioning date in the fourth quarter of 2025 and beneficiary operation in the first quarter of 2026, aims to address the challenges of unemployment and poverty by generating employment opportunities. It is expected to create 100 permanent jobs, 1 000 contract jobs, and contribute to skills development in the local community.
“However, the successful implementation of this project hinges on overcoming challenges related to the availability of power. As one of the primary input materials for the production process, the project requires a stable power supply of 15 MW. Guaranteed power supply without interruption to ensure smooth operations is of extreme importance,” emphasises Mkhize.
According to Mkhize, key stakeholders involved in this venture include Nuberg Engineering, the Gauteng Growth Development Agency, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), InvestSA, and the Development Finance Institutions. Collaborative efforts from these stakeholders will support the project’s realisation and contribute to its success.
“As of now, Afro-Zonke is in the final stages of securing the remaining balance funding amount. The total capital requirement for the project is R2.1 billion. Afro-Zonke acknowledges the commitment and support received thus far from the market, with all products and technology partners confirmed,” says Mkhize.
Enquiries:
Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
Tel: (012) 394 1643
Mobile: 079 5083 457
WhatsApp: 074 2998 512
Email: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za or Mediarelations@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
Follow us on X: @the_dtic
Share this:
