Premier Ramathuba addresses Limpopo Investment Conference Media Briefing

LIMPOPO – Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, said the province allocated R32 billion in investment opportunities across diverse sectors, reaffirming Limpopo’s readiness as a prime investment destination.

Ramathuba said when addressing the Limpopo Investment Conference Media Briefing held on Wednesday 1 October 2025, at the Atrium Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.

The conference aimed to highlight the province’s investment potential and growth opportunities.

“At the forefront of our mission is the imperative of Limpopo’s Investment Growth and Industrialisation. This objective is underscored within the ambit of the Limpopo Development Plan of 2025-2030, a strategic roadmap set to guide our province toward sustainable growth, economic resilience and social upliftment,” she said.

Ramathuba emphasized the importance of cultivating the province’s natural resources and economic potential.

“The seed we planted is now sprouting opportunities for investment, which we intend to nurture further as we prepare for our 5th Limpopo Investment Conference this October,” she said.

The 5th Limpopo Investment Conference, themed: “Limpopo Rising – Africa’s New Investment Frontier,” will take place on 30 and 31 October 2025. The conference will unveil the Limpopo Investment Book 2025, outlining over R32 billion in investment opportunities across diverse sectors.

Ramathuba said Limpopo’s rich natural resources and strategic location make it an attractive investment destination.

“The province has over the past four years generated a combined pledge of R282.34 billion from previous investment conferences, with R66.76 billion which is 23.6%, being realized in actual investments. This has led to the creation of 20,084 jobs, demonstrating a significant impact on the economy,” informed Ramathuba.

She disclosed that the 2024 Limpopo Investment Conference for example, catalysed R120.3 billion in new investment pledges, showcasing the growing confidence in Limpopo’s investment climate.

“Currently, projects worth R19.2 billion are progressing well, including notable developments such as Ivan-plats and Generic Core Sustainable Energy, which exemplify our province’s potential in mining and renewable energy sectors,” said Ramathuba.

Furthermore, the premier informed that R9.9 billion in projects are awaiting regulatory approvals, which, once granted, will positively affect local economies.

The Premier indicated that despite challenges, including stalled projects such as the Zebediela Nickel due to operational issues and R30.8 billion linked to governmental bottlenecks and delays affecting the Giyani Solar Project, the province is prioritizing strategic action to overcome these hurdles.

“In our transition from reliance on primary sectors to industrialisation, we aim to unlock the province’s potential in alignment with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework,” she said.

Ramathuba highlighted the need to expedite the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), including the FetakgomoTubatse SEZ and the Musina-Makhdado SEZ to attract further industrial investments.

“An impressive R52.8 billion of pledged investments hinges on the development of Special Economic Zones, highlighting the need to expedite their establishment to attract further industrial investments,” she said.

The Premier invited journalists to join in framing the narrative of growth and positivity within the province.

“Your role in shaping perceptions cannot be overstated; together, we can cultivate stories that shine a light on our achievements and the spirit of resilience that characterizes Limpopo,” she said.