By Akani Nkuna
The Limpopo provincial government is gearing up to host the 5th edition of the Limpopo Investment Conference, with Premier Phophi Ramathuba projecting that the gathering will attract at least R28 billion in new investments to boost the province’s economic growth and sustainability.
Launching the conference at Atrium Boutique Hotel in Polokwane on Wednesday, Ramathuba noted that previous editions of the conference had secured more than R280 billion in pledges, of which R66 billion has already been invested across sectors, creating over 20,000 jobs.
“Furthermore, R9.9 billion in projects are awaiting regulatory approvals, which, once granted, will positively impact local economies. An impressive R52.8 billion of pledged investments hinges on the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), highlighting the need to expedite their establishment to attract further industrial investments,” she said.
The conference, scheduled for the last two days of this month under the theme “Limpopo Rising – Africa’s New Investment Frontier,” will bring together business leaders, government representatives, community leaders, and NGOs to map out strategies for driving the province’s economic ambitions.
Ramathuba said the conference has already acted as a catalyst for developments worth more than R19 billion currently underway, including Ivanplants and Generic Core Sustainable Energy projects, which showcase Limpopo’s potential in mining and renewable energy.
She added that the conference aligns with the province’s 2030 development plan, which seeks to harness natural resources to tackle youth unemployment, currently at 35%.
However, Ramathuba also acknowledged setbacks, citing abandoned and stalled projects such as the Zebediela Nickel and Giyani Solar initiatives. She blamed operational challenges and “governmental bottlenecks” but said strategic action plans were being prioritised to overcome them.
The premier stressed Limpopo’s ambition to position itself as a critical economic player in regional and continental trade, aligning with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
“This conference not only acts as a platform for attracting vital investments but also reinvigorates our collective belief in the promise of a brighter future,” Ramathuba said, calling for alignment of motive and mandate among stakeholders.
MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Tshitereke Matibe, added that the province is working to strengthen aftercare support for investors and address governance challenges that could deter investment.
He said the Limpopo InvestSA One Stop, in collaboration with the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA), is refocusing its investment incentives to support the provincial development agenda.
“Investment promotion platforms, particularly this conference, are key to showcasing our investment portfolios. They also allow us to engage directly with investors, strengthen aftercare, and ensure that commitments are converted into tangible projects,” Matibe said.
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