WATCH: Conference highlights investment opportunities in Ekurhuleni

The two-day Ekurhuleni Investment Conference 2024 officially kicked off at Emperors Palace on November 26, under the theme, ‘Unlocking Opportunities, Building a Sustainable Future’.

According to the host, the annual gathering aims to attract new investors, and renew investor confidence, economic growth and sustainable development in the region.
This year, the conference saw a panel of speakers, including government officials and representatives of large private/public entities, presenting the city’s investment opportunities to potential investors.

The conference featured local businesses, from start-ups and small firms to big businesses, which took advantage of the platform by exhibiting and presenting their products and service offerings.
Ekurhuleni Mayor Doctor Xhakaza led the speaker line-up with an opening address on day one of the event.

Among the dignitaries who took part in the panel on investment opportunities in the city were: Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, Deputy Minister Communications and Digital Technologies and former Ekurhuleni Mayor Mondli Gungubele, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Ekurhuleni city manager Dr Imogen Mashazi, group executive ACSA Lauriette Sesoko, CEO GIDZ Industrial Cluster Development Thandiwe Ngqobe, CEO Teraco Jan Hindz, group chairperson of Akani Retirement Fund Zamani Letjane and several City of Ekurhuleni MMCs and PR councillors.

Uninterrupted power supply
In an exclusive interview with the Boksburg Advertiser on day one of the conference, the city manager pointed out that more investment will help increase the capacity of the city to render services and build more infrastructure.

Among the key things Mashazi assured investors of is a reliable supply of energy through the city’s independent power producers (IPPs) programme.
Amidst concerns over Eskom’s power generation problems and load-shedding, the city had invited investors who could create a different form of energy supply to help the city enhance the reliability of power supply.

“The first round of that process was completed and we are now beginning the second round, where we have large companies that are going to invest in renewable energy, like solar, wind, energy waste. We are confident that this strategic initiative will give the city alternative energy sources – which will not only ensure a more reliable power supply but is expected to also positively influence the city’s economic outlook.

“We are saying to investors this is the safest place where we have an alternative form of energy that will ensure the sustainability of their businesses,” said Mashazi.

Dwindling city’s finances
Responding to questions about the reportedly dwindling city’s finances, Mashazi dismissed claims that the city is facing a financial crisis and may not be able to fulfil its mandate as mapped out in the State of the City Address 2024.
She said things are not as bad as portrayed by politicians engaged in behind-the-scenes politicking.

“I’m the accounting officer, I can assure residents that the current financial state of the city is healthy, and things that we see on X posted by various politicians are just politicking.
“I’m the accounting officer and I’m telling you now that the budget, as we speak, is funded and was approved by the national treasury.
“For us to respond to silly statements made by politicians is not going to help us. We are officials and we will remain apolitical because we are not part of politics. We are just professionals and administrators.”

Key takeaways from the conference
In his speech, Xhakaza spoke about the identified key thematic areas that will guide their discussions and initiatives moving forward:

• Aerotropolis and airport city development: This involves strengthening partnerships with key investors and stakeholders in the Aerotropolis and manufacturing sectors. Advancing the Aerotropolis Master Plan, which is aimed at increasing investor confidence and unlocking financing for development.

• Industrial estate development: The city is committed to supporting the growth of industrial estates and the manufacturing sector. The expected outcomes include boosting investor retention, attracting new investments, and promoting local manufacturing and procurement.

• Critical infrastructure development: In partnership with the private sector, the city has invested and seeks further investment in critical infrastructure.

• On energy solutions, the mayor said: “As the demand for consistent electricity continues to rise, the network availability levels at primary substations have consistently aligned with industry standards, ensuring a reliable electricity supply to consumers. However, the detrimental impact of third-party interference—manifesting as theft, vandalism, and illegal connections — poses significant challenges.
“To combat third-party interference effectively, the city has initiated a series of interventions, including the rollout of early warning technologies designed to detect and mitigate instances of interference. In recent years, the city has undertaken a significant programme to replace ageing oil-filled cables that have been prone to frequent failures with newer technologies.”

• Township economic development: The city prioritises empowering township economies through entrepreneurship initiatives and government support. The expected outcomes include fostering inclusive economic growth, supporting township businesses, and promoting local manufacturing programmes.

• CBD and industrial estate revitalisation: The city said it recognises the importance of revitalising our city’s central business districts and industrial estates.
Its goal is to develop partnerships for urban renewal, improve infrastructure, and create fiscal incentives to attract investment, such as the Boksburg-based Siqalo Foods which is a prominent fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company specialising in food manufacturing.

• In addition, CoE has strategically leveraged Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Industrial Developmental Zones (IDZs) to stimulate economic growth and attract investment. These zones are designed to provide a conducive environment for industrial development, characterised by tax incentives, infrastructural support, and regulatory benefits.

As a result, Ekurhuleni has positioned itself as a hub for manufacturing and innovation, fostering job creation and enhancing local economic resilience. The continued development and promotion of these zones are expected to play a crucial role in sustaining Ekurhuleni’s economic trajectory and enhancing its competitive advantage in the regional market.

The conference also highlighted key development opportunities that lie ahead.
These include public sector investments, such as the Airports Company South Africa’s (ACSA) OR Tambo International Airport development programme, the Gautrain Rail Expansion and the new university planned for Ekurhuleni.

“These initiatives will not only enhance our infrastructure but also create a conducive environment for private sector investment.
“Through our ‘Live-Play-Invest’ campaign, we are showcasing Ekurhuleni as a destination that offers not only business opportunities but also a vibrant lifestyle for residents and visitors alike. This conference is an integral part of that campaign, providing a platform for collaboration between local and international business communities, government, and other stakeholders.”

“Since the 2021 local government elections, the city council has witnessed an unprecedented phenomenon characterised by a continual change in leadership which has created uncertainty. However, with the current leadership at the helm with six months into its term, there has been a marked improvement in political stability and government response to issues.
“This leadership is committed to fostering an environment of consistency and collaboration, ensuring that the status quo of stability is maintained throughout the remainder of the term.”

Exhibitors

Facts about Ekurhuleni
• Boasts 4.1 million people (48,9% females; 51,1% males)
• Covers 197 592 hectares
• 11% of Gauteng province
• Has 1.4 million households
• Boasts nine towns, 17 townships and 131 informal settlements
• 19.7% to Gauteng’s GDP
• 6.91% to South Africa’s GDP

Also Read: Congratulations to our Boksburg Best of Ekurhuleni winners