Lesufi Unveils Gauteng’s Plan for Economic Growth and Job Creation

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to expanding special economic zones (SEZs) to create employment opportunities for young people. Speaking at a sod-turning event at the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) ahead of his State of the Province Address (SOPA), Lesufi emphasized that the initiative was an investment in the province’s future.

Lesufi highlighted that demand for SEZs had exceeded expectations, with several companies eager to set up operations. The upcoming second phase of the Tshwane Automotive SEZ, set to begin next month, is expected to attract R6.1 billion in private sector investment.

The premier aligned his address with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s national priorities, which focus on economic growth, job creation, and social development.

Lesufi acknowledged the province’s ongoing struggles with crime, gender-based violence (GBV), cable theft, infrastructure failures, and the water crisis. He apologized to residents experiencing water shortages, pledging swift government intervention.

“We cannot claim to be a smart province while our people suffer from such a basic problem. Instead of lamenting, we must act. We have decided that power failures at substations will now be managed by Eskom,” he stated.

Lesufi emphasized his administration’s commitment to reducing poverty, lowering the cost of living, and building an ethical and capable government. However, his leadership has faced criticism, with opposition parties blaming him for the Gauteng Health Department’s rising financial deficit, which has grown from R4.8 billion to R7.3 billion in the last three months. DA provincial chairperson Solly Msimanga accused him of failing to deliver on his promises.

Despite the criticism, Lesufi pointed to the success of the Tshwane Automotive SEZ, which did not exist five years ago. Today, the facility produces 700 cars daily and employs 5,000 people.

The premier also addressed infrastructure challenges, particularly potholes and malfunctioning traffic lights. He announced plans to resurface roads and improve intersections to ensure Gauteng is ready to host G20 guests.

On crime, Lesufi reiterated his commitment to fighting hijacking syndicates and organized crime. He revealed that more than 40 individuals involved in criminal operations had been arrested. He praised the private sector for investing R2.1 billion in a surveillance system and commended law enforcement for tracking and arresting criminals before they could flee the country.

“Last night, a mastermind attempting to escape to Ethiopia was arrested and is now behind bars. We cannot rely on outdated crime-fighting methods,” he added.

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