City of Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has invited investors and private-sector partners to explore strategic investment opportunities to accelerate development and economic growth in Thembisa and across Ekurhuleni.

The city has identified several key projects for investment, including the Thembisa Urban Hub, Makhulong Youth Hub, Thiteng BRT Station Precinct Development, Leralla Market and Station, Thembisa Station, the Kaalspruit Catchment Area Development and the Ebuhleni Golf Course Development.

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The investment opportunities form part of the city’s Expressions of Interest programme, which seeks to attract partners capable of unlocking economic potential, creating jobs and contributing to the development of vibrant and resilient communities.

Addressing residents, Xhakaza said the city was focused on implementation and service delivery.

“We are moving beyond planning and into action. We have already begun addressing infrastructure challenges in Thembisa, including pothole repairs and the rehabilitation of key infrastructure such as the bridge at Winnie Mandela.

“Our focus is on ensuring that communities see tangible improvements,” said Xhakaza.

He added that various city departments and MMCs have been tasked with improving service delivery, strengthening by-law enforcement and reducing reliance on external service providers where possible.

“We want to build the capacity of the city to deliver services efficiently while creating employment opportunities for residents. Our goal is to ensure that development continues regardless of political changes and that services are not delayed,” he said.

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Xhakaza also highlighted ongoing efforts to attract investment and stimulate local economic growth.

“We are bringing investors into Ekurhuleni and Thembisa to utilise available spaces for development that will benefit local communities and contribute to economic growth,” he said.

Speaking about the Thembisa Precinct Plan, the mayor said the project aims to transform and modernise the township while improving access to services and economic opportunities.

“The Thembisa Precinct Plan is intended to revitalise the area and ensure that residents have better access to services, business opportunities and public spaces.

“We want to create a community that caters for people of all ages and supports economic activity through well-planned development,” he said.

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Xhakaza described the initiative as a long-term investment in Thembisa’s future, noting that the township’s strategic location offers significant opportunities for economic growth and urban renewal.

“This is about creating a lasting legacy for Thembisa. As one of Gauteng’s largest townships, it has enormous potential. We must be deliberate in driving economic revitalisation and modernising our local spaces to improve the quality of life for residents,” he said.