Gauteng Premier Announces Over 830,000 Job Opportunities in Employment Drive

The Premier emphasized that the province is not merely making promises but delivering on tangible employment commitments.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has revealed that at least 830,000 employment opportunities will be created in the province through a combination of public and private initiatives. The announcement was made during his State of the Province Address in Tshwane on Monday evening.

Employment Creation Strategy

The Premier emphasized that the province is not merely making promises but delivering on tangible employment commitments. A total of 271,150 permanent jobs and 561,000 employment opportunities will be generated across key sectors to alleviate unemployment.

Permanent Job Creation Initiatives:

1. Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (SEZ) - The second phase of this project will create 4,000 construction jobs and 2,150 post-construction jobs.
2. Public Sector Infrastructure Project - A R220 billion infrastructure pipeline will provide 34,000 construction jobs and 17,000 post-construction jobs.
3. Lanseria International Airport Expansion - A R3 billion investment will lead to 3,000 new jobs.
4. Mekgrereng Smart City Project - A massive R20 billion investment will create 20,000 new jobs.
5. Vaal Special Economic Zone (SEZ) - A R28 billion investment in the Vaal Aerotropolis will generate 6,000 new jobs.
6. Gautrain Expansion Project - Expected to create 125,000 jobs in its next phase.
7. Tourism and Hospitality Sector Growth - Projected to support 60,000 jobs.

Employment Opportunities Through Government Initiatives:

1. Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) - This initiative will generate 469,000 job opportunities for the unemployed.
2. Department of Higher Education and Training NEET Programme - R1.3 billion investment to recruit 40,000 individuals not in employment, education, or training.
3. Labour Activation Programme - In partnership with the Department of Labour, Gauteng has secured 20,000 stipend-based work opportunities.
4. Presidential Youth Employment Stimulus - Will provide 32,000 teacher assistant jobs.

Revitalizing the Steel Industry

Premier Lesufi addressed the closure of the ArcelorMittal steel plant in Sedibeng, which threatened job security in the area. However, the province has secured a commitment for the establishment of a new steel firm in the region.

A R2.5 billion steel plant has already completed phase one and employed 1,000 workers. Phase two is expected to double this workforce, pending the completion of outstanding municipal and administrative approvals.

Gauteng Investment Conference to Secure R800 Billion in Investments

To further stimulate economic growth, the Gauteng government will host the Gauteng Investment Conference under the theme "Investing in Gauteng: The Engine of Africa's Growth."

• The conference aims to secure R800 billion in investment pledges over the next three years.
• By April 2025, Gauteng expects over R300 billion in private sector investment pledges.
• Additionally, the public sector will present an infrastructure pipeline valued at R220 billion.

Premier Lesufi underscored that the province is entering a new era of economic growth and called on local and international investors to be part of this transformation.

With these bold initiatives, Gauteng is positioning itself as a powerhouse of employment creation and economic revitalization, setting the stage for sustained growth and development in the province.