Oil and gas partnership opportunities in KZN
KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Sihle Zikalala says the oil and gas industry presents many opportunities for partnerships in this province.
Zikalala was speaking at the two-day Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Business Council meeting held in Durban last week.
‘The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), which is located in the Port of Richards Bay is being developed as a site and an anchor for energy infrastructure, especially gas,’ he said.
The MEC outlined the province’s overall infrastructure expenditure, which will exceed R200-billion over the next seven years.
‘The infrastructure development would make doing business in KZN easy and cost effective.
‘The programme involves road construction, air-freight, rail, provision of water and sanitation services, electrification and a major focus on the maritime industry.
‘We are encouraging partnerships between the public and the private sectors to maximise investments and grow the economy together using the infrastructure as a catalyst,’ Zikalala said.
He said government will ensure that potential investors are directed to various corners of this province, particularly local municipalities.
‘As we rebuild these municipalities to become dynamic engines of economic development, we want to ensure inclusive economic growth, redistribution of wealth and the creation of an equal society,’ he said.
He noted the special economic zones at Dube Trade Port and the RBIDZ, which he says offer an attractive corporate tax regime that ensures greater value for investors.
Zikalala added that the provincial government will also work with member countries to facilitate twinning of cities, provinces and academic institutions and strengthen partnerships in the business fraternity.
‘The KZN One Stop Shop located in Durban provides an easy point of entry for potential investors.
‘It is geared to assist business people with the all the necessary support to set up business in our province and to ensure the elimination of red-tape in getting their business started,’ he said.