By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Limpopo premier Phophi Ramathuba has urged all the investors and stakeholders to join the province not just in discussion, but in action, as it pushes to become Africa’s new investment frontier.
Ramathuba delivered the opening address during the 5th Edition of the Limpopo Investment Conference under the theme: “Limpopo Rising Africa’s New Investment Frontier.”
The two-day event, held at the Ranch Hotel outside Polokwane, showcases over R32 billion in opportunities across key sectors like energy, mining, agro-processing, tourism, and manufacturing, aiming to drive job creation and economic growth in a province rich in resources but challenged by skills gaps.
Since its inception, the Limpopo Investment Conference has yielded major results. Over the past four years, it has generated pledges worth R282.34-billion. And R66.76-billion (23.6%) of this has been converted into actual investments. This created 20,084 jobs across multiple sectors.
The 2024 conference alone secured R120.3-billion in new investment pledges. Projects worth R19.2-billion, including Ivanplats and Generic Core Sustainable Energy, are already underway. While initiatives valued at R9.9-billion await regulatory approval. A further R52.8-billion in investments is tied to the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
The premier praised investors for their contributions to improving livelihoods across Limpopo. She cited examples such as the ZZ2 Packhouse in Greater Letaba Municipality. Also the Shekinah Game Reserve and SAMPADA Abattoir in Modimolle-Mookgophong. The Steelpoort Bridge in Fetakgomo-Tubatse, the Provincial Theatre and Provincial Academic Hospital in Polokwane. And the Exxaro Renewable Energy Plant in Lephalale Municipality.
“Our province is rich in minerals, fruits, and vegetables. And I see no reason why we cannot work together with investors and partners to fully implement the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP). To foster an inclusive agricultural sector, and leverage green energy to establish Limpopo as a global leader in renewable energy. This in line with the national government’s goals,” Ramathuba said.
She reiterated the seventh administration remains committed to translating the aspirations of Limpopo’s communities into tangible outcomes.
“At the forefront of our mission is imperative of Limpopo’s investment growth and industrialisation. This is guided by the Limpopo Development Plan 2025–2030. Our province is rich in natural resources and contributes significantly to South Africa’s economy. Yet unemployment remains at 35% — a challenge we must confront,” she said.
Ramathuba openly admitted Limpopo’s skills deficit, particularly in STEM fields needed for its resource-based economy.
“The province suffers from a shortage of skills the economy requires, but said the provincial government is determined to build institutions of higher learning that will produce quality graduates, “she noted.
She urged municipalities to simplify processes for the private sector, highlighting the need to turn last year’s R120 billion pledges into real projects.