POLOKWANE – Provincial Government has set a target of R30b from domestic and foreign investors in the third edition of the Limpopo Investment Conference which is currently hosted at The Ranch Resort.

This figure is a decline of the R20b last year, with Economic Development MEC Rodgers Monama having cited cognisance of international receding financial markets that affect all economies.

A total of R250b was pledged in the last two editions, and R150b materialised through mining and agriculture investments, according to the Premier, Chupu Mathabatha.

This year, the aim is to also attract funders into the province’s agro-processing, infrastructure, automotive, mining exploration and beneficiation, green energy and tourism sectors.

The hospitality, tourism and retail industry are among some sectors that benefit immensely from the conference being hosted locally.

The consistent supply of running water will, however, no doubt form part of the conference discussions.

Capacity issues that remain emanate from the fast-growing population, load-shedding and infrastructure challenges.

On Sunday, the municipality released a statement acknowledging that pipes ejected dirty water due to lines that had remained empty for longer periods of time, and advised that residents to report any faults for immediate attention.

At last Friday’s media briefing about the conference, Monama said they had faith in the municipality to ensure that the investors are well accommodated “despite the existing challenges which are receiving vigorous attention”.

About two weeks ago, the ANC’s Provincial Executive Committee (PEC), hosted the Peter Mokaba region chairperson and city mayor, John Mpe and Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo at the Jack Botes hall, in request for feedback with regard to the provision of running water.

At the time, Mpe mentioned that a breakthrough in terms of a recent financial injection from the Department of Water and Sanitation will assist the municipality greatly in the completion of outstanding infrastructure, such as the Sandriver North Water Treatment Works.

Speaking on Mpe’s behalf, ANC Peter Mokaba region spokesperson Adolph Rapetswa said this municipal project, like another in Seshego, had not been approved by the department in its infancy stages, and therefore relied on municipal funds that had depleted and resulted in a delay.

“We hope the investors will look at the potential which the city carries to excel, even within current service delivery issues. We truly hope that they can come on board to assist wherever possible to end the inconsistencies,” Rapetswa added.