Video Credit Lesetja Makhura
By Thulane Madalane
Polokwane: Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba welcomed a diverse audience of business leaders, government representatives, and community members to the 5th Limpopo Investment Conference held at The Ranch Resort. The annual event, themed “Limpopo Rising: Africa’s New Investment Frontier,” serves as a platform for discussing the province’s revitalized economic outlook and showcasing investment opportunities across various sectors.
In her opening remarks, Premier Ramathuba expressed gratitude and excitement, reflecting on the significance of the gathering. “We gather here today not only to celebrate our achievements and share our dreams but also to sow the seeds of a brighter future for the province of Limpopo,” she stated, underscoring the province’s potential as a top investment destination in Africa.
Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of South Africa’s literary figures, Ramathuba invoked the imagery of gathering rain clouds, likening them to Limpopo’s economic revitalization following a period of uncertainty. She emphasized the importance of resilience, referring to the themes explored in Bessie Head’s novel, When Rain Clouds Gather, which symbolizes hope and transformation.
The Premier highlighted recent triumphs in the province, notably the recognition of Keletso Monareng, a PhD candidate at the University of Limpopo who received the prestigious L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award for her work on sustainable sodium-ion batteries. This achievement serves as a testament to Limpopo’s burgeoning innovation landscape, showcasing the province’s commitment to harnessing its natural resources through education and skill development.
Further, Ramathuba announced a significant milestone in trade relations, heralding a new stone fruit agreement with China, which opens the market for several fruit types grown in Limpopo, such as apricots and nectarines. “This trade pact not only unlocks a market worth over R400 million but also empowers local farmers to expand production,” she explained.
Reflecting on the province’s economic trajectory, Premier Ramathuba shared that Limpopo emerged as South Africa’s best-performing economy in 2024, achieving a growth rate of 0.9% and increasing its national GDP contribution from 7.2% to 7.8%. Despite progress, she acknowledged the ongoing challenge of addressing high unemployment rates, especially among youth, and committed to implementing strategies to foster inclusive growth.
The Premier outlined Limpopo’s comprehensive industrialization strategy aimed at consolidating its economic clusters in agriculture, mining, and tourism. Key focus areas include transforming special economic zones (SEZs) and developing infrastructure to attract investment. She expressed anticipation for the final designation of the Fetakgomo-Tubatse Industrial Park as an SEZ, viewing it as a catalyst for economic transformation.
“We have counted over R280 billion in investment pledges over the past four years, creating 20,000 jobs,” Ramathuba remarked, highlighting successful projects like Nkuna City Development and the Exxaro Renewable Energy Plant as proof of the province’s potential to elevate living standards.
As the conference progressed, attendees were introduced to the Limpopo Investment Prospectus 2025, showcasing over R32 billion in investment opportunities. The document aims to reinforce the province’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for private sector investments through streamlined business operations.
Emphasizing collaboration, Ramathuba called on investors and stakeholders to engage actively with local initiatives, ensuring shared success in cultivating sustainable economic growth. She concluded her address by encouraging all to embrace the moment as the conference begins.
