Progress in investment and economic projects in Bay
IT'S full steam ahead for a number of investment and economic development projects in Richards Bay.
These include the palm oil refinery currently under construction, as well as various projects in the pipeline at the Port of Richards Bay.
Delivering the State of the Province Address (Sopa) in the KZN Legislature last week, Premier Sihle Zikalala said the refinery in the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) is expected to be operational by the end of the year and would not only create jobs, but also provide opportunities to local farmers and businesses.
‘Wilmar Oils started the construction of a
R1.3-billion plant that will produce edible oils.
‘As part of value addition, this facility will provide farmers with a sustainable market to supply soya beans,’ said Zikalala.
The premier further highlighted ongoing efforts to improve capacity at the ports of Durban and Richards Bay.
He said Transnet National Ports
Authority (TNPA) is forging ahead with the finalisation of the KZN Ports Master Plan which seeks to position Richards Bay as a dry bulk and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) hub, and Port of Durban as a container hub.
Future plans
‘Notable achievements and announcements related to the KZN ports expansion projects include Request For
Information (RFI) for a gas terminal development in Richards Bay,’ he said.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has also approved the appointment of professional service providers to undertake a study to develop the Provincial Integrated Electrification Master Plan within the province.
‘The engagement with Transnet on ensuring Richards Bay becomes a gas and oil hub for the country is bearing fruit.
‘Transnet has already issued the first call for expressions of interest for companies to generate gas.
‘Accordingly, this should not be the only gas-to-energy project but a few more should be explored as the initial agreement was to host 2 000 Gas Megawatts in Richards Bay,’ the premier said.