The Free State MEC for Finance, Tourism, and Economic Development has called on investors to pour more funding into the province, citing successful projects like the Springbok Solar Project in Virginia.

MEC Ketso Makume made this appeal during a visit to the site on Friday (4/10) where the project – backed by partnerships such as WHO and solar groups–.has already created 494 job opportunities, with a focus on youth and women. Currently, 35% of the workforce is made up of young people, and 20% are women.

“We are incredibly proud of this project,” Makume said. “The total investment in this solar initiative is R113 million, and it has succeeded in bringing together the municipality, project coordinators from the department, and the contractors. This is just one example of how the Free State is turning into a construction hub."

He urged contractors from various industries to seize the opportunity to invest in the province. /The Free State is a place to go to, not just to pass through.”

Makume also praised the involvement of 58 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the project. He was particularly impressed with the efficiency of the transport system, noting how taxis are always available to shuttle workers to and from the site without any issues. Former Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana had vowed to ensure the province plays a vital role in contributing to the country’s energy initiatives.

“We are determined to position the Free State as the country’s central energy security hub. The Free State energy landscape presents immense investment opportunities in natural gas, solar power, coal, uranium, hydropower, wind, and hydrogen to power the future of the country.” It is estimated the Free State has 23 billion cubic feet of natural gas. 

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg