The Special Economic Zones (SEZs) Special Advisor at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Mr Maoto Molefane says the proposed Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is key in creating jobs and industrialising the province. Molefane was speaking during the SEZ public participation session hosted in Steelpoort, Limpopo today.
According to Molefane, Limpopo is one of the provinces with high unemployment rate, and in dire need to be industrialised and developed in order to create sustainable jobs.
“The Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ must now go beyond just being a concept and become a reality. To this effect, there must be a clear implementation plan with timelines, supported by commitments with clearly defined roles and responsibilities from all spheres of government,” said Molefane.
Molefane added that all stakeholders must use the proposed zone to create a new city, integrate cities, and to demonstrate the Sekhuhune District capabilities.
“We are going to coordinate all our efforts with the province, with the district to ensure that we develop this through a district model where all necessary support from all spheres across government would focus on single plan, which is to develop communities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.
Addressing the same event, the Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba said the feasibility studies and business plans submitted by the Limpopo Provincial Government, backed by both Fetakgomo-Tubatse Local Municipality and Sekhukhune District Municipality, have been evaluated, tested, and validated.
“What we are proposing is real, practical, and most importantly, it is needed for the welfare of our people. Let me assure you that this proposed SEZ will be a game-changer, a multi-sectoral economic zone that will stimulate activity in critical areas including mining inputs manufacturing, renewable energy, mineral processing, logistics, agro-processing, general manufacturing and aftermarket production. These clusters are designed not in isolation but in response to both global trends and local realities,” she said.
Ramathuba pointed out that the zone is strategically placed within a vibrant mining and industrial hub. She said this offers businesses the competitive advantage of established infrastructure, access to natural resources, and proximity to key markets.
“The SEZ will also incorporate renewable energy technologies, embracing clean energy to power our industries and protect our environment. This SEZ is not just about infrastructure and industry. It is about building a future and transforming a historically marginalised district into a driver of Limpopo’s economy and a proud contributor to South Africa’s reindustrialisation agenda.
Ramathuba encouraged local entrepreneurs to get ready to become suppliers, service providers, and investors so that the SEZ can be inclusive, transformative, and sustainable.
The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Special Advisor at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Mr Maoto Molefane.
The Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
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