The proposed Vaal Special Economic Zone (SEZ) seeks to drive reindustrialisation and revitalise the local economy, says Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi.
He was speaking to community stakeholders and local entrepreneurs on Wednesday
at a public consultation meeting regarding the development in Vereeniging.
The meeting was held in partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Government, Sedibeng District Municipality and other stakeholders.
This comes after Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau published a 30-day public consultation notice last month calling for stakeholders and the public to submit comments on the proposed designation of the economic zone.
Godlimpi said the decision to designate the Vaal SEZ followed eight years of extensive work within the DTIC to study the causes of the collapse of manufacturing in the region 30 years ago, and to explore new policy instruments to revive and protect it in future.
“This region already has strong foundations. It has industrial capacity, strategic location advantages, access to major transport routes and a workforce with experience and potential,” Godlimpi said.
“What has been missing is coordinated investment, modernisation and new economic drivers aligned with the future. The Vaal SEZ addresses exactly that. It is structured to drive reindustrialisation, bringing back manufacturing strength while adapting to modern economic demands,” he said.
Godlimpi added that the economic zone would focus on sectors such as green industrialisation, agro-processing, logistics, energy and the blue economy linked to the Vaal River.
The project is expected to create more than 4 000 direct jobs and an additional 1 300 plus indirect jobs during construction, with opportunities for local contractors, artisans, suppliers and general workers.
“Economic transformation cannot happen without human development. The SEZ will stimulate demand for skills training, apprenticeships and partnerships with educational institutions,” Godlimpi said.
“Young people in this region must not remain spectators; they must become participants in the economy. By creating jobs, supporting businesses and restoring economic activity, we directly address some of the root causes of crime. Economic inclusion is one of the most effective tools for building safer communities.”
