SPONSORED | Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ set to lead green industrial revolution and create jobs in Sekhukhune
The Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is set to create a greener, more sustainable future for Sekhukhune and the province.
The Fetakgomo-Tubatse Special Economic Zone (SEZ), established in 2014 as a subsidiary of the Limpopo Economic Development Agency, is emerging as a critical driver of new developments poised to reshape Sekhukhune’s economy.
Focused on stimulating industrial activities across the Dilokong Spatial Economic Initiative and neighbouring municipalities, the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ has the potential to uplift over a million residents through expanded manufacturing and green energy projects.
Central to the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ’s strategy is its commitment to low-carbon industries and the green economy to combat climate change and bolster local energy security.
By harnessing Sekhukhune’s rich mineral resources – platinum, coal, vanadium and others – the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ seeks to revolutionise local manufacturing by processing these minerals locally.
This transformation will help produce key components for renewable energy, including batteries and alternative power sources and create job opportunities for locals.
We are committed to not leaving our people behind and want to see local businesses actively involved in this transformation.
In line with its ambitious goals, the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is inviting businesses in sectors such as mining and mineral beneficiation, renewable energy production, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, ICT and electric vehicle manufacturing, to explore the opportunities available within the zone.
The aim is to build a robust industrial ecosystem that will cater to both the domestic market and international exports.
According to Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ’s CEO, Solly Kgopong, the zone’s recent awareness campaigns are ensuring that all Sekhukhune residents know about the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ and how it can improve living conditions in the area. They are also encouraging local businesses to visit and learn how they can align with the green economy. “We are focused on developing critical components for hydrogen energy and electric vehicles, as well as promoting solar and pharmaceutical industries to ensure the long-term sustainability of our economy. We are committed to not leaving our people behind and want to see local businesses actively involved in this transformation,” said Kgopong.
More than six tenants have already committed to setting up operations in phase 1, covering chrome beneficiation, hydrogen energy component assembly, electric vehicle production and solar energy.
The development is already under way. Along Steelpoort’s R555, trees have been cleared to make way for the construction of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ, which will span a total area of 1.22ha. Phase 1 of the project, covering 316ha, is earmarked for light and heavy industrial uses, including hydrogen energy-related industries.
Phases 2 and 3 will be rolled out based on market demand and will include renewable energy facilities, additional industrial space and mixed-use and residential developments.“More than six tenants have already committed to setting up operations in phase 1, covering chrome beneficiation, hydrogen energy component assembly, electric vehicle production and solar energy,” Kgopong said.
This, along with plans for constructing additional sites in other Sekhukhune municipalities, signals a strong commitment to retaining and enhancing the value of the region’s resources.
We ask for patience and support from our people,” he said. “In the next five to 10 years, Sekhukhune’s economy will be revitalised.
Positioned as a future leader in green industrialisation, Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ incorporates renewable energy into its core operations.
Its proximity to the Merensky Reef – a renowned mining hub – aligns perfectly with the provincial government’s broader strategy to develop key sectors, particularly mining, manufacturing and renewable energy.
Kgopong is confident in the potential of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ to improve the lives of Sekhukhune’s citizens significantly, given the region’s resource wealth. He stresses the importance of public engagement, urging local communities to support the long-term vision. “We ask for patience and support from our people,” he said. “In the next five to 10 years, Sekhukhune’s economy will be revitalised.”
With plans now in motion and commitments secured from key players, the Fetakgomo-Tubatse SEZ is poised to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future for Sekhukhune and the province.