The MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane together with the Executive Mayor of the City of Matlosana Local Municipality Cllr Fikile Mahlophe, presided over the Project Handover and Launch of Women & Youth Empowerment Initiative in Matlosana Local Municipality on 15 April 2025. This event marked a pivotal step in the region’s economic development, focusing on energy security, skills development, and job creation, particularly for women and youth.
A key focus of the event was the handover of the Urban Blue International Gas-to-Power project. This R15 billion investment, facilitated by the municipality’s provision of land, is set to establish a 99MW Gas-to-Power Plant. This project is intended to bolster the region’s energy security and stimulate economic growth, while also providing a cleaner energy alternative.
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane highlighted the significance of the gas to power project. “This landmark investment represents a crucial step forward in our quest for energy security and the promotion of vital investment in our Municipalities and our Province,” said the MEC.
Alongside this major infrastructure development, MEC introduced initiatives focused on skills development and job creation. The BANKSETA Skills Development Programme was also launched today will provide local women and youth with valuable, credit-bearing skills, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. Additionally, 100 Compliance Monitoring Field Workers were introduced, comprised of local youth, and will be deployed to enhance the department and municipal capacity in enforcing business and environmental regulations. These two programs will generate 253 job opportunities.
The initiatives are part of a broader effort to address youth unemployment and promote sustainable development. MEC Lenkopane reiterated the government’s commitment to providing ongoing support to Matlosana, including initiatives in Environmental Services, Business Regulation Support, Economic Development Support Services, Tourism Services, and the establishment of a One-Stop Shop Centre.
Mayor Cllr Fikile Mahlophe expressed his appreciation for DEDECT’s support, emphasising that these initiatives are for the benefit of the community. He highlighted the importance of the compliance officers in ensuring businesses adhere to local bylaws, and recognised the Gas-to-Power project as a transformative investment for the people of Matlosana. The Mayor further expressed that the launch will assist the Municipality to embark on environmental awareness campaigns at schools and withing the CBD.
The event underscored the collaborative efforts between provincial and local government in driving economic development and empowering communities. This partnership is fostering tangible results through significant investment and meaningful job creation, laying the foundation for a more prosperous future for the Province.