AMANZIMTOTI is set to benefit from a multi-billion rand investment after the eThekwini Municipality’s executive committee (Exco) approved the development of a world-class artificial intelligence (AI) data centre in Kingsburgh by a South Korean company.

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To be developed by the Korea South Power Consortium, the project carries an estimated investment between R52.8b and R158.4b, and will be fully funded by the developer. The final cost of the project will be determined by size and the technology Korea South Power Consortium selects for the advanced operations.

In a statement, eThekwini said the centre will deliver high-performance computing to support smart-city applications such as real-time traffic optimisation and energy management.

“The development will include an AI training hub to equip residents with future-ready digital skills, integrating eco-tourism elements to benefit local communities,” read the statement.

The site earmarked for development is located not far from the stretch of land that was earmarked for an automotive park near Winklespruit. While agreeing that the site in question has been under-utilised, and welcoming the prospect of much-needed investment and job creation in the ward, Councillor André Beetge cautioned against the municipality committing to anything concrete without proper public consultation. He expressed cautious optimism that meaningful progress and development, often perceived as being concentrated in the north, are at least being considered for the south.

In response to several probing questions posed by Beetge at the February 24 Exco sitting, the head of eThekwini Municipality’s legal department assured councillors that the municipality is merely seeking approval to initiate a process.

“This process, he confirmed, would remain subject to comprehensive public participation, consultation with key stakeholders, and the necessary approvals from relevant internal departments responsible for zoning, planning, water, sanitation, electricity, and traffic management, etcetera,” said Beetge.

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