DESTEA on the investment drive
As part of his efforts to attract investment into the Free State province, DESTEA MEC Thabo Meeko together with delegation from FDC, FSGLTA, and DESTEA, held an engagement with Matjhabeng Local Municipality (MLM) Mayoral Committee to discuss how intergovernmental relations can be used to unlock catalytic projects and investments in MLM.
Amongst the key issues discussed is how best to revitalize the Phakisa raceway. MLM council has resolved to allow the FDC to source investors for the facility.
MEC Meeko highlighted that the revitalization of Phakisa will create both direct and indirect jobs in the area and will also serve as a nucleus around which the broader Phakisa Development Node will be built
DESTEA and MLM committed to working together to finalise the feasibility study on the potential to establish a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) around the gas fields in Matjhabeng.
With regard to Welkom Airport, it was resolved that MLM, FDC, and the department will source investors who will be given a long-time lease agreement to develop this facility into a cargo airport.
Furthermore, DESTEA will support the MLM towards the envisaged MLM Investment Summit.
MEC urged captains of the industry to open opportunities for SMMEs through access value chains as this will create employment and reduce poverty.
He concluded that he would continue with the roadshows to other local municipalities to identify economic opportunities.
Issued by the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.
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