The Mpumalanga local government hopes to boost the provincial economy, attract investment and create employment over the next two years.
Making reference to the premier’s State of the Province address, the economy, investment and employment executive council committee on Tuesday outlined some of the projects to be undertaken during this period.
These include two flagship projects, the Moloto Rail Development Corridor and the Maputo Development Corridor.
It is hoped the railway line will improve the quality and safety of public transport and act as a catalyst for the development of economic activity along this corridor, said provincial minister Craig Padayachee, chairperson of the committee.
The Maputo Development Corridor should improve transport infrastructure and trade opportunities along the corridor.
”Work has commenced on the development of the Witbank/Middelburg Industrial Park, and the feasibility of other industrial parks is being explored in order to determine their optimal location along the corridor,” said Padayachee.
In terms of job creation, he said the expanded public works programme (EPWP) has continued to make significant contributions to the creation of employment and skills opportunities for the poor, youth, women and those with disabilities.
”During the next two years, the EPWP will be massified to reach a target of 50 000 job opportunities,” said Padayachee.
He said R20-million will be allocated over the next two years to help increase agricultural production and food security.
The provincial government will continue to advance the economic empowerment of emerging black entrepreneurs. In addition, R200-million has been allocated as seed capital to the province’s economic growth agency to invest in financially viable projects.
Padayachee said that a tourism growth-development strategy is being finalised. The strategy will help promote Mpumalanga as a destination of choice for domestic and international tourists. — Sapa