By Thapelo Molefe
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has applauded investors for pledging more than R100 billion in new projects across the province, calling the commitments a “defining moment” in KZN’s journey toward inclusive and globally competitive growth.
Speaking at the closing of the 2025 KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference at the ICC Durban on Thursday, Ntuli said the pledges of R100.1 billion represent a vote of confidence in the province’s future.
The projects are expected to create over 60,000 direct jobs and 240,000 indirect employment opportunities.
“These investment commitments are not merely financial transactions, they are declarations of confidence in KwaZulu-Natal’s future,” Ntuli said.
“They reflect a shared belief that sustainable growth requires an active and deliberate partnership between the public and private sectors.”
From eThekwini and Msunduzi to iLembe, uMgungundlovu, King Cetshwayo, uMkhanyakude, uThukela, Amajuba and Ugu, Ntuli said the projects’ wide geographic spread reflected government’s deliberate strategy to drive inclusive regional development.
“The impact of these projects will be felt in every district,” he said.
“This balanced distribution reflects our deliberate effort to harness the unique comparative advantages of each area, whether in logistics, agriculture, tourism, or manufacturing.”
Ntuli said the diversity of investments showcased the province’s evolving economic character, with significant growth recorded in renewable energy, manufacturing, property, agro-processing, tourism, and skills development.
Among the major projects highlighted were Colenso Power and Mulilo Energy Holdings in renewable energy, and large-scale developments such as Zimbali Lakes, Salt Rock City, and Seaton Estate, which are expected to bolster KZN’s tourism and real estate sectors.
“It is especially encouraging that many of these are greenfield investments — new ventures that inject fresh capital, ideas, and energy into our economy,” the Premier said.
“The brownfield expansions are equally vital, fortifying the foundations of industries that have long anchored KwaZulu-Natal’s economic resilience.”
Ntuli stressed that government would continue to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal remains an attractive destination for investors through policy certainty, improved infrastructure, ethical governance, and efficient service delivery.
“Every investor who chooses KwaZulu-Natal affirms their belief in our governance, our institutions, and most importantly, our people,” he said.
“These investments will enable young people to enter the labour market, small enterprises to integrate into value chains, and communities to participate in the benefits of economic growth.”
He added that the provincial government remains committed to building a resilient and innovative economy that benefits all residents.
“Together, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive KwaZulu-Natal, a province that works not only for business, but for all its people,” Ntuli said.
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