Mega park coming to Soweto

In what is set to boost Gauteng’s West Rand economy, Maximum Group Holdings yesterday announced a partnership with Afribiz Developments to build a R20 billion West Rand Mega Park, creating over 50 000 jobs.

Situated at the intersection of R558 and N12 highway – at the entrance of Soweto and Protea Glen – the mammoth development project, to be concluded in five years, will comprise an agri-processing hub, an industrial park, a fresh produce market, restaurants, fast food outlets, meat and seafood markets and a children’s recreational area.

Afribiz Invest has concluded an acquisition of 50% shareholding in Protea Agri Park – the project development company for the West Rand Mega Park – set on 302.6 hectares of industrial-zoned land.

According to Protea Agri Park director Slaven Gajovich and Afribiz Invest executive chair Collen Mashawana, the development will also include a container and truck stop depot; a logistic hub and a solar farm.

It is expected to create more than 50 000 permanent and 7 500 temporary jobs.

Gajovich and Mashawana said the project would be a major economic and social boost for Soweto, Lenasia and Randfontein.

“The major development will empower many businesses in and around Soweto as part of the supply chain through directly supplying products and services to businesses in the West Rand Mega Park,” they said in a joint statement.

Gauteng premier David Makhura said the project would be a catalyst for the development of the West Rand, with the awarding of special economic zone (SEZ) status expected to be a catalyst for investment and development.

The West Rand is one of the five development corridors within the Gauteng city region earmarked for new industries and economic opportunities.

Gajovich and Mashawana said they looked forward to a partnership with government and other stakeholders to promote economic growth – part of the Growing Gauteng 2030 Plan.

“There are also a number of international corporations and companies that have shown interest in taking space in it.

“However, most of them have also voiced their preference to start and operate in an SEZ environment.”

The West Rand Mega Park is expected to create more than 50 000 permanent and 7 500 temporary jobs.