PRIME industrial land, located adjacent to the Port of Richards Bay, will soon be available for lease to local and foreign investors.
This as the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) continues with installation of engineering infrastructure in Phase 1A of the business zone.
RBIDZ, which forms part of a national government initiative, is aimed at promoting local beneficiation of products prior to export, creating jobs and improving South Africa’s balance of trade.
With Phase 1A zoned for light industry, RBIDZ CEO Pumi Motsoahae told the Zululand Observer they had already received several enquiries from potential investors.
‘On completion of the engineering infrastructure, 62ha of prime industrial land will be available for lease to investors,’ said Motsoahae.
‘Bulk earthworks to Stage 2 of Phase 1A is two weeks ahead of schedule and is expected to be complete by 18 October. The installation of civil engineering services to Stage 1 of Phase 1A is nearing completion by the end of March.
‘This milestone will enable investors to exploit the first 22ha of Phase 1A. Installation of electrical services to Stage 1 of Phase 1A has also commenced and is expected to be completed by the end of July.’
Industry sectors targeted in Phase 1A include resources (renewable energy and agro-processing), manufacturing (pharmaceutical, maritime industry, automotive, transport equipment and machinery) and services (transport, logistics, ICT and electronics).
Jobs
Motsoahae said over 875 construction jobs had been created to date.
‘At least 32.5% of work benefitted targeted enterprises which are black business enterprises from the local area through our indirect enterprise development. Another beneficiation has been through the utilisation of local labour, which is at 63,8%, with an average of 45% being youth and 6% females.’
The company is also in the process of appointing a consulting team for the design of an entrance gate complex to Phase 1A, with construction earmarked for August.
‘RBIDZ is committed to ensuring it plays its role in helping to achieve government’s objectives of creating employment opportunities and investments for our area, which will lead to poverty alleviation and skills enhancement.
‘The company adheres to world-class standards in environmental management and has a comprehensive strategy to mitigate any detrimental effects on the swamp forest and wetland ecosystems within Phase 1A,’ said Motsoahae.
