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The Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Pinky Kekana, led a team of monitors for an assessment of economic catalytic projects at the Freeport Saldanha Industrial Development Zone. Deputy Minister Kekana was joined by the Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Ms Bernice Swarts. 

The Saldanha Industrial Developmental Zone is one of the nodal points that have been identified to stimulate economic growth and development. The model that has been deployed at Saldanha Industrial Development Zone is consistent with the District Development Model (DDM), which promotes integration and collaboration between government and the private sector.

During the visit, the Chief Executive Committee of the Freeport Saldanha Industrial Development Zone, who is also the Chairperson of the Industrial Development Zones in South Africa, Ms Kaashifah Beukes, presented a blueprint of the planned development in the area which will create business and employment opportunities for the Saldanha community and contribute in the economic recovery of the country. 

The Blueprint is anchored in Marine and Energy sectors. The marine sector includes activities such as the marine service hub, boat building and repair, vessel decommissioning and offshore supply base. The energy sector is anchored on bulk fuel storage, manufacturing hub, service hub and integrated logistics facility. 

The CEO also highlighted some of the challenges that they face as they implement the blueprint which include structural SEZ legislative constraints and lack of coordination.  

In response, Deputy Minister Kekana and Swarts committed to organise a summit for all relevant stakeholders to deliberate on the blueprint, identify potential risks and address the gaps and design mechanisms for mobilisation of investments, skills development and community involvement. 

Deputy Minister Kekana and Swarts also stressed the need for community involvement, better understanding of the value chain, strengthening the beneficiation, localisation, and transformation in the ocean economy. 

Issued by Government Communications (GCIS) on behalf of the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation