Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba has called on investors and development partners to channel their investments towards strengthening the province’s agroprocessing and green energy sectors.
Delivering her opening address at the 5th Limpopo Investment Conference, themed “Limpopo Rising: Africa’s New Investment Frontier”, Ramathuba said it was unacceptable that the province’s unemployment rate stood at 34%, despite its vast natural resources.
“It is for this reason that I am pleading with you as investors to join us as a province in utilising our natural resources to turn around our situation,” she said.
Province has great potential for growth
Ramathuba highlighted Limpopo’s potential for growth. She noted the province’s favourable climate for producing apricots and nectarines. This is particularly in Waterberg, Capricorn, and the Levubu Valley in Vhembe. And she highlighted the opportunities presented by trade agreements with China.
“As a province, we are committed to inclusive growth and job creation. And a comprehensive industrialisation strategy focusing on agriculture, mining, and tourism.”
The premier praised investors for their contributions to improving livelihoods across Limpopo. She cited examples such as the ZZ2 Packhouse in Greater Letaba Municipality. Also the Shekinah Game Reserve and SAMPADA Abattoir in Modimolle-Mookgophong. The Steelpoort Bridge in Fetakgomo-Tubatse, the Provincial Theatre and Provincial Academic Hospital in Polokwane. And the Exxaro Renewable Energy Plant in Lephalale Municipality.
“Our province is rich in minerals, fruits, and vegetables. And I see no reason why we cannot work together with investors and partners to fully implement the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP). To foster an inclusive agricultural sector, and leverage green energy to establish Limpopo as a global leader in renewable energy. This in line with the national government’s goals,” Ramathuba said.
7th administration goals
She reiterated the commitment of the seventh administration. It remains committed to translating the aspirations of Limpopo’s communities into tangible outcomes, she said.
“At the forefront of our mission is the imperative of Limpopo’s investment growth and industrialisation. This is guided by the Limpopo Development Plan 2025–2030. Our province is rich in natural resources and contributes significantly to South Africa’s economy. Yet unemployment remains at 35% — a challenge we must confront,” she said.
Since its inception, the Limpopo Investment Conference has yielded major results. Over the past four years, it has generated pledges worth R282.34-billion. And R66.76-billion (23.6%) of this has been converted into actual investments. This created 20,084 jobs across multiple sectors.
The 2024 conference alone secured R120.3-billion in new investment pledges. Projects worth R19.2-billion, including Ivanplats and Generic Core Sustainable Energy, are already underway. While initiatives valued at R9.9-billion await regulatory approval. A further R52.8-billion in investments is tied to the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Challenges remain
However, Ramathuba acknowledged several challenges. These include stalled projects worth R4-billion, such as Zebediela Nickel. And R30.8-billion in delayed investments due to government bottlenecks, including the Giyani Solar Project.
“We are taking strategic action to unlock these investments and drive industrialisation. This is in alignment with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” she concluded.
