Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has called for the speedy implementation of investment commitments worth R138.4 billion secured at the 6th Limpopo Investment Conference, saying the focus must now shift towards creating jobs and growing the provincial economy.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, delivering the keynote address, revealed that investment conferences held between 2021 and 2025 attracted more than R452 billion in pledges, of which over R71 billion had been realised, contributing to nearly 24,000 jobs.
The conference also saw the launch of the InvestSA One Stop Shop, an initiative designed to help investors navigate government processes, regulatory requirements, permits and other administrative procedures needed to establish or expand businesses.
The facility is expected to improve coordination between government departments and investors, reduce unnecessary delays and accelerate the implementation of viable projects.
Limpopo’s investment opportunities span mining, agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, tourism and infrastructure development. If successfully implemented, the projects could create employment, strengthen local businesses and expand economic opportunities for communities across the province.
However, the R138.4 billion represents investment pledges rather than money already received. The actual benefits will depend on how quickly projects secure financing, meet regulatory requirements and become operational.
The One Stop Shop could also contribute to South Africa’s broader ambition of mobilising R3 trillion in investment by 2030.
For Ramathuba’s administration, the challenge is now to turn the commitments into tangible development, sustainable jobs and improved livelihoods for the people of Limpopo.
