Investment in high-growth sectors and infrastructure key to reigniting Gauteng economy- 23 February 2021

Office of the Premier 2021/02/22 - 22:00



Lerato Mailoane

Gauteng Premier, David Makhura says the province is taking a lead in the implementation of the country's Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

Makhura said this would be done through high-growth sectors and investment in infrastructure projects.

Addressing lawmakers, at the Legislature during the State of the Province Address. Makhura said this would be done through Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in each district or metro.

According to Premier Makhura the Growing Gauteng Together (GGT 2030) remains a priority although the plan had to adjusted due to COVID-19.

"We have a common vision and plan of action for the immediate long -term development of each metro or district, regardless of the changes that may happen from time to time in the local and provincial government.

"In the Johannesburg Metro, though there were problems these have been resolved and the municipality is working with the province in coordinating efforts in unlocking investment in the CBD as well as in the northern and southern parts of Johannesburg," said Makhura

Premier Makhura further noted that the Lanseria smart city master plan had been signed off by all stakeholders, including the private sector, the four municipalities involved and the DBSA.

An excellent model on the success of SEZ is the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) which will create, a total of 3288 new permanent jobs.

The three spheres of government are investing R3.3 billion in infrastructure, which has unlocked R4.3 billion investment by suppliers and a further R15.8 billion investment announced by Ford Motor.

Makhura said the success of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone has also created a new momentum for the development of the Gauteng-Eastern Cape Freight Rail Corridor which will be fully operational by 2025. "This will facilitate a swift movement of goods out of the Gauteng City Region SEZs, industrial parks and agri-parks, including the much higher volumes of vehicles from Silverton and Rosslyn to the seaports for export," he said.

In the West Rand SEZ, work is also underway with approximately 100 hectares of land donated by Sibanye Still Water Pty Ltd, along the N12 Corridor.

The final approval of the SEZ is expected this year so that construction of bulk infrastructure can commence before the end of this year.

Makhura said government was working hard to ensure this SEZ was completed by 2024.

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