R1.8-billion boost for the Bay
ZULULAND is primed for massive job creation following a R1.8-billion investment by Wilmar.
This was facilitated by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ).
Delegates attended the Wilmar Processing SA preview event and site walkabout last week, where they witnessed the historic completion of a pipeline from Wilmar Palm Oil Refinery Plant to the Port of Richards Bay.
The initiative created 1 373 construction jobs with 202 set to be created upon completion.
The event acknowledged the progress and the start of phase one of Wilmar Processing SA (Pty) Ltd, signifying an operationalisation of R1.27-billion of the total project cost of R1.5-billion - since escalated to R1.8-billion.
Speaking at the event held at RBIDZ, EDTEA MEC Siboniso Duma thanked Wilmar for their investment in South Africa.
"We value the support of President Cyril Ramaphosa through the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Nomalungelo Gina who has been representing national government throughout the construction phases of this project, which will change the face of KZN for many years to come.
"We consider ourselves privileged to be the host of the world’s largest palm oil refinery producer and trader."
He said this global food processing giant will supply major brands such as Unilever, Nestle, Colgate-Palmolive, PepsiCo, Kellogg’s and more.
In his address, Wilmar GM Theiva Muthu said this is one of the biggest listed companies on the
Singapore Stock Exchange, and one of the biggest agribusinesses.
"We operate in over 70 countries with 1 000 manufacturing facilities and more than 120 000 employees in our group. Our commitment to Africa remains in the 16 countries we are operating in on this continent," he said.
"We have palm plantations in several African countries, and manufacturing plants and downstream operations where production of oils, soaps and detergents are being created in South Africa.
"Richards Bay is a unique port, and we can bring in a bigger vessel and continue on the east or west coasts to our other operations.
"Our operations will help other brands with the component of palm oil, and we need all the support from government, RBIDZ and other stakeholders to create symbiosis to bring more opportunities, jobs and upskill locals."