To realise key partnerships identified as pillars for strengthening the strategic framework for economic growth and development, Eastern Cape MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) Mcebisi Jonas signed a collaboration agreement with Transnet Group CEO Brian Molefe to put practical actions for advancing work on the port and land use plans with the ultimate focus on economic growth, social upliftment and environmental sustainability.
This signing took place on Friday, 5 August in East London as part of the on-going engagements between the two entities.
"It is crucial for the Eastern Cape to foster partnerships with state-owned enterprises for re-building its economy in order to boost its capabilities on developmental aspects," said MEC Jonas as he outlined the roadmap leading to the signing of the agreement and the exciting opportunities it brings to the province.
MEC Jonas emphasised the importance of the collaboration agreement in positioning the province at the forefront of the planning processes that seek to attain tangible economic reforms which are integral for economic functioning at both provincial and national level.
Elaborating on the significance of the agreement, Jonas said: "Involvement in the technical economic planning processes with Transnet will be an added advantage as the role of province will not only rubberstamp initiatives endorsed elsewhere; but will be instrumental in crafting concrete contributions to the much needed economic rejuvenation."
Transnet Group CEO Brian Molefe commended the leadership role taken by the province to realise this outcome. "The agreement presents an opportunity for us to collaborate with the province on investments that will improve our efficiencies and create capacity in line with the outlined priorities for the future."
The agreement has enabled the establishment of a structured engagement forum, whose specific objectives are to ensure:
- Effective engagement with each other on strategic issues of mutual significance.
- Enhancement of the development and efficiency of the manganese channel.
- Enhancement and facilitation of the export / import market.
- Cooperation in various programmes of infrastructure expansions, land use plans, port development plans, and other transport connections to provide capacity ahead of demand.
- Cooperation in promoting friendly relations with each other.
- Collaboration to attain an enabling policy and regulation environment for the attainment of the Parties’ growth and economic development plans.
- Inform and consultation on matters of common interest where appropriate.
- Coordination of actions and legislation so as to avoid conflicts.
- Coordination of performance and minimisation of the duplication of functions.
"The agreement has set wheels in motion for wider stakeholder engagement. DEDEAT appreciates the importance of forging synergies with like-minded stakeholders for the betterment of our economic environment and subsequent contribution in changing people’s lives," concluded Jonas.
For enquiries and interviews please contact:Mr Sixolile Makaula
Communications Manager
Tel: 043 605 7117
Cell: 072 751 5001
E-mail: sixolile.makaula@deaet.ecape.gov.za
Source: Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism
