Positioning the Northern Cape as the new growth front for South Africa, the event intends to help unlock investment in the vast untapped natural resources of the province, these include minerals and renewable energy resources.

The conference will be hosted by the Northern Cape Premier, Dr. Zamani Saul, and the MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Ms. Venus Blennies-Magage, together with leading industry partners.

“The Northern Cape is a competitive, investment-ready province committed to economic transformation and job creation. The province continues to record significant achievements across key sectors and remains firmly committed to improving service delivery and bettering the lives of its people,” says Dr. Zamani Saul.

The province aims to catalyse the creation of over 60,000 sustainable new jobs in the next three years through investment and development of the mining, renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, tourism and manufacturing sectors. This job creation target is closely aligned with both the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) and the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) Vision 2040, underscoring the province’s proportional contribution to the nation’s broader employment objectives.

A new growth front

The Northern Cape’s rich mineral resources position the region as a new growth point for rare earth mineral mining. With billions already invested in manganese, iron ore and diamond mining and associated value chains, there remain significant untapped opportunities for mining and beneficiation of lithium and other rare earth minerals. The province has the potential to become one of the world’s largest and lowest cost new producers of minerals that are needed for smartphones, lithium batteries and other products.

Highlighting the province’s growth potential, the Industrial Development Corporation recently announced more than R300-million in funding for the Frontier Rare Earths Project in the Northern Cape.

The province is also a hub of the Southern African renewable energy sector and hosts half of the country’s major solar and wind farm installations. However, significant future growth opportunities exist for grid expansion and battery storage projects, as well as for green hydrogen, ammonia and power-to-X (P2X) projects.

“Our province produces nearly three times more renewable energy than it consumes, accounting for more than 60% of the country’s renewable energy projects,” says Dr. Saul.

Industrialisation and logistics also represent key growth areas. With over R100-billion in anticipated investment, industrialisation of the Northern Cape could encompass mining, energy, minerals beneficiation, agro-processing and logistics, and manufacturing.

Driven by major infrastructure projects including the Boegoebaai deep water port and Upington special economic zone and dry port, key opportunities exist for enhancing trade routes to Namibia, servicing massive manganese and iron ore mining operations, and transport, cold chain and logistics for agro-processing. Tourism integration and agriculture and agro-processing also offer high-value investment opportunities. 

Unpacking key opportunities

The Northern Cape Investment and Jobs Conference will bring together local and international investors; the diplomatic corps; provincial, national and local government; business and industry leaders; academia and community stakeholders in Kimberley from 13 – 15 April 2026 for talks on investment and development opportunities and the way forward.

In plenary sessions and panel discussions, speakers will unpack topics such as:

• why the Northern Cape represents the future of South African economic growth;
• mining opportunities, future minerals, and value chain beneficiation;
• the Northern Cape as Africa’s renewable energy hub;
• critical infrastructure and logistics enablement;
• the development of transport corridors, integrating tourism into industrial development strategies;
• building resilient agricultural ecosystems; and
• pathways for Northern Cape industrialisation.

For more information about the conference and to register your interest in participating, please visit https://ncijc.org.za or contact: sandra@blueberryconcepts.co.za

The Northern Cape Investment & Jobs Conference 2026 is the province’s flagship investment mobilisation platform – designed to unlock large-scale, job-intensive industrial development aligned with South Africa’s green economic transition. 

The conference positions the Northern Cape as South Africa’s next industrial growth frontier, translating national policy into bankable projects, firm investment commitments, and measurable employment outcomes. 

It is a platform where strategy moves into execution and capital is mobilised at scale.

This is a high-level investment and deal-making convening, purpose-built to accelerate industrial development, unlock sustainable job creation and advance coordinated growth across priority economic sectors. 

For more information, please see the conference brochure here:
 

For more information about the conference, and to register your interest in participating please visit https://ncijc.org.za or contact: sandra@blueberryconcepts.co.za

Located near De Aar in the Northern Cape, the project benefits from some of the country’s best wind resources and direct access to the main transmission corridor connecting the Cape provinces to the industrial north-east of South Africa. Castle will supply Sibanye’s South African operations via a wheeling agreement with Eskom. ACED and Sibanye-Stillwater’s early market entry secured vital grid access, avoiding current capacity constraints that limit new wind project development.

Castle Wind Farm will provide 309GWh of clean energy annually to Sibanye-Stillwater’s South African operations, reducing emissions by 321 000t CO2e per year and securing long-term energy cost savings. This project also demonstrates how private-sector-led renewable initiatives can drive energy security and economic growth.

Castle Wind Farm will provide 309GWh of clean energy annually to Sibanye-Stillwater’s South African operations…

The Castle consortium is led and cosponsored by ACED, with African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM) IDEAS Fund and Reatile Renewables as shareholders. AIIM is a division of Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI) and its IDEAS Fund is one of South Africa’s largest domestic infrastructure equity funds. Reatile Renewables is a strategic empowerment investor in renewables. ACED and AIIM affiliate, Energy Infrastructure Management Services Africa (EIMS Africa), will manage the project during operations.

Castle is one of two renewable energy projects that the ACED consortium and Sibanye are executing together, with the 140MW Umsinde Emoyeni Wind Farm in the Western Cape being the other one. The latter is due to reach commercial operation in late 2026.

This project brings the total delivery by the ACED and EIMS Africa teams to over 600MW of hydro, wind and solar projects to financial close and construction in a two-year period, enhancing the consortium’s collective drive to be a leader in renewable energy development and operation in South Africa and across the continent. This builds on over a gigawatt of projects it has already developed and operates via the South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).

James Cumming, CEO of ACED, explains: “We are pleased to bring Castle Wind Farm into operation for Sibanye and the project shareholders. Projects such as these require huge amounts of collaboration and cooperation between a vast array of stakeholders and we are very grateful for the role played by all. Benefits extend way beyond ‘Buyer and Seller’, with renewables projects driving sustainable economic growth on a macro and micro level for South Africa, and we are very proud of this.”

Sunette Smith, Business Development Executive of Reatile Group, added, “Reaching COD is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the extended teams of Sibanye-Stillwater, our partners AIIM, ACED and EIMS Africa as well as our appointed contractors. We could not have done it without their commitment and expertise. We are proud to be playing our role in South Africa’s energy transition and delivering sustainable energy solutions for the country.”

According to a report by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA), wind energy is increasingly turning into a leading driver of South Africa’s transition to a future built on renewable energy. The country has world-class wind resources, especially along its extensive 3 000km coastline, particularly in the Eastern and Western Cape.

As of March 2025, SAWEA estimates that over 3.5GW (gigawatts) out of 63.4GW of installed capacity is generated from the 37 wind power plants currently operating in the country. These wind farms are estimated to contribute over 46 480GWh (gigawatt hours) annually.

South Africa has world-class wind resources, especially along its extensive 3 000km coastline, particularly in the Eastern and Western Cape.

“Although solar power is more widely adopted – especially at the residential level – wind farms are purely mechanical and don’t rely on complex chemical processes,” says Reid. “But the logistics and planning behind getting a wind farm operational are highly complex.”

The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2024) allocates a total of 76.4GW of new capacity to be provided by wind energy by 2050. “This presents significant opportunities for investment, industrialisation and job creation,” Reid adds.

Infrastructure to deliver

While wind power generation uses a simpler mechanical process, the components are large and heavy, requiring precise logistics management to enable efficient rollout of wind farms.

In the wind-rich landscapes of the Eastern and Western Cape, Concord Cranes is helping power the country’s renewable energy future, one turbine at a time.

“Since June 2025, we started supporting African Clean Energy Developments in the construction of a 144MW wind farm. Our 260-ton crawler crane, operated by a team of 12 to 20 experts over an 11-month project, offloads equipment from vessels in the laydown area at Port of Coega in Gqeberha, and then reloads it on demand for delivery to the site in Murraysburg,” says Reid.

While this may sound straightforward, he emphasises the sheer scale of the work. “The planning and detail required to get these projects completed is enormous and the financial commitment is equally significant.” In broad terms there are three tasks that need to be undertaken, and the requirements for each vary quite considerably.

Phase 1: discharging the vessel

The first step focuses on logistics in the port: offloading all the turbine components such as blades, tower sections and nacelles, into the port laydown area for storage. “This 24-hour round-the-clock operation requires cranes, specialised vehicles and rigging crews and can take up to seven days,” Reid explains.

Once this is completed, reloading the components – some weighing up to 130 tons, 90 metres long and six metres wide – are reloaded onto specialised vehicles for transport to site. Detailed route surveys identify obstacles along the way, and all the necessary permits and police escorts must be arranged well in advance.

“A delivery of a set of three blades will require a convoy of up to 10 vehicles, excluding the delivery trucks themselves. By car, the drive from Port of Coega to Murraysburg takes about
four hours, but with these oversized loads and the complexity of the operation, a layover is often required,” he says.

Phase 2: building the turbines

Once components arrive on site, assembly cranes offload them in a detailed logistics operation. “The turbines themselves can reach heights of 120m,” says Reid. “Positioning the nacelle, containing the drive train and weighing between 80 to 120 tons, and then attaching the rotor and blades at heights up to 130 metres must be done in near wind-free conditions, often in the freezing early hours.”

Here, the contractor must adhere to strict safety standards using cranes with between 800 and 1 000 tons, as well as a variety of support and tailing cranes.

Phase 3: maintenance

The third operation is repairs and maintenance of existing turbines. “This involves getting spare components to site, providing cranes, riggers and the removal of damaged parts,” he says.

As with the previous phases, safety and compliance remain central. “Every employee or subcontractor must have valid medical certificates, working at height certificates and certificates of competence,” Reid adds. “Then there’s letters of appointment, labour market information, letters of good standing, professional driving permits and confirmation of public liability cover. Plus, every contract must include a detailed risk assessment, method statement, safe operating procedure and lifting plan.”

While wind farming itself is a relatively simple and scalable way of producing electricity, setting it up is an intricate logistical ballet, with countless moving parts.

“Each of these must be managed carefully, with continuous improvements in processes to ensure that South Africa can take full advantage of its abundant wind resources and power the country’s economic growth and a sustainable future for the
next generation,” says Reid.

About Concord Cranes

Concord Cranes is the gold standard across Southern Africa when it comes to crane hire. Operating in South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique, Concord Cranes is equipped with a versatile fleet of more than 180 cranes, ranging from eight tons to 800 tons sourced from high-quality global manufacturers. Concord Cranes delivers reliable lifting solutions to a wide range of industries, which include mining, construction, warehousing, logistics, renewable energy, petrochemical, civil infrastructure, oil and gas and maritime.

Built on a legacy of family values, passion and determination, these principles guide Concord Cranes and its commitment to unmatched reliability and safety remaining your complete lifting partner.

For more information visit concordcranes.com

The vision for the Smart Solar Panel Manufacturing Plant (SSPMP) was born from a deep-rooted belief in Africa’s potential to lead its own energy transition. Against the backdrop of South Africa’s growing energy crisis, reliance on imports, and the urgent need for localised solutions, the idea crystallised: build a future-facing, locally empowered solar panel manufacturing facility.

The journey began with strategic groundwork — engaging government stakeholders, aligning with energy policies like SAREM and JET, and securing a footprint within the Northern Cape SEZ to maximise incentives and export potential. Parallel to this, we conducted a comprehensive pre-feasibility study, which confirmed the project’s financial viability and market appetite, setting the stage for the next phase.

The vision evolved beyond conventional manufacturing. SSPMP integrates smart technologies: AI-enabled panels, digital twin testing, smart monitoring systems, and the ability to generate IRECs for energy traceability. It is a plant designed for circularity, powered by renewables and recycling water, setting new ESG benchmarks for the sector.

SSPMP integrates smart technologies: AI-enabled panels, digital twin testing, smart monitoring systems, and the ability to generate IRECs for energy traceability.

Crucially, this journey has been underpinned by building strong coalitions — from local funders to international partners, policy makers to private sector collaborators — each recognising the project’s contribution to localisation, job creation, and energy security.

Today, the SSPMP is poised for implementation, with feasibility funding in motion, multiple investors engaged, and a clear roadmap to supply both domestic and regional markets. It is not just a factory — it’s a catalyst for South Africa’s energy sovereignty and industrial revival.

Project description

Project Scope: 300MW Solar Panel Manufacturing Plant

1. Project Priorities

The 300MW Solar Panel Manufacturing Plant is a strategic initiative designed to localize solar panel production in South Africa, reduce dependency on imports, and drive economic growth through renewable energy development.

The project prioritizes:

• Local Manufacturing & Economic Development: Establishing a fully operational solar panel production facility to boost local industry and job creation.
• Energy Security & Sustainability: Enhancing South Africa’s renewable energy capacity by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality, locally manufactured solar panels.
• Job Creation & Skills Development: Providing direct employment opportunities for over 300 workers and supporting thousands more through supply chain activities, logistics, and maintenance.
• Competitive & Technologically Advanced Production: Incorporating the latest mono PERC and bifacial solar panel technologies to ensure efficiency, affordability, and global competitiveness.
• Export Market Expansion: Positioning South Africa as a key supplier of solar panels across Africa and international markets.
• Alignment with Government Policies & Climate Goals: Supporting the South African Just Energy Transition plan and national renewable energy targets to reduce carbon emissions.

2. Project Deliverables & Expected Outcomes

The project will deliver tangible economic, environmental, and social benefits, ensuring long-term sustainability and profitability.

Phase 1: Plant Design & Construction (Year 1-3.5)

• Secure strategic land for the factory in a high-potential industrial zone, Northern Cape with the sun irradiation of circa 6.6kW/m2.
• Construct a 50,000-square-meter manufacturing facility with integrated R&D, quality control, and testing units.
• Procure and install state-of-the-art smart solar panel production lines with an initial capacity of 300MW annually, Korean technology partners are already in negotiations.
• Develop an efficient logistics and supply chain network to source raw materials locally where possible, fortunately all these materials are available in South Africa.

Phase 2: Workforce Development & Operations Launch (Year 2-3)

• Recruit and train a skilled workforce, including engineers, technicians, and assembly-line workers.
• Implement cutting-edge automation and quality control systems to ensure the highest efficiency and reliability.
• Establish partnerships with local universities and technical institutions to foster skills transfer and innovation in solar manufacturing.

Phase 3: Full-Scale Production & Market Expansion (Year 3-4)

• Begin commercial-scale production, targeting both local renewable energy projects and export markets.
• Drive cost efficiencies to make locally produced solar panels competitive against imports.
• Expand product offerings, including customized solar modules for different applications (residential, commercial, industrial, and utility-scale projects).
• Work with the South African government and energy stakeholders to integrate locally manufactured solar panels into national energy programs.

Long-Term Outcomes & Impact

• Increased Local Manufacturing – Reducing reliance on imported solar panels, ensuring stable supply and pricing.
• Economic Growth & Employment – Creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, boosting industrial and economic development.
• Energy Transition Acceleration – Supporting South Africa’s renewable energy targets and reducing carbon emissions.
• Regional Export Opportunities – Strengthening South Africa’s role as a renewable energy hub for Africa and beyond.

Direct Beneficiaries of the 300MW Solar Panel Manufacturing Plant

The establishment of a 300MW solar panel manufacturing plant in South Africa will have far-reaching socio-economic benefits, directly impacting multiple groups within the country. This initiative is not just about energy production but also about economic empowerment, industrial development, and social upliftment.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary beneficiaries of this project.

1. Local Workforce & Job Seekers

Impact: Direct employment for 300+ workers and thousands of indirect jobs.

• Unemployed Youth & Job Seekers: With youth unemployment exceeding 60%, this project will provide stable job opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and quality control.
• Skilled & Semi-Skilled Workers: Training and employment in solar panel assembly, machinery operation, and maintenance, offering long-term career opportunities.
• Women in the Workforce: Promoting gender inclusivity by actively hiring and training women in manufacturing, administration, and management roles.
• Technical & Vocational Graduates: Collaborations with TVET colleges and universities will create employment pathways for recent graduates in engineering, electronics, and industrial production.

By reducing reliance on imports, fostering local skills development, and strengthening South Africa’s green economy, this project will directly benefit thousands of people across multiple sectors.

2. Local Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Impact: Business opportunities for suppliers, logistics providers, and service contractors.

• Manufacturing & Component Suppliers: Local businesses involved in glass production, aluminium framing, junction boxes, and other raw materials will benefit as suppliers to the plant.
• Logistics & Transport Companies: The plant will require warehousing, distribution, and transportation services to move solar panels across South Africa and for export.
• Construction & Engineering Firms: Local firms specializing in infrastructure development will gain contracts for building the plant and maintaining its facilities.
• Recycling & Waste Management Companies: With a focus on sustainability, waste reduction, and recycling, the plant will create demand for solar panel recycling services and sustainable disposal solutions.

3. Local Communities & Underprivileged Groups

Impact: Community development, skills training, and social upliftment.

• Communities in the Manufacturing Zone: Residents in industrial development zones (IDZs) where the plant is established will benefit from infrastructure improvements, better services, and increased business activity.
• Underprivileged & Low-Income Groups: The project will initiate community training programs, scholarships, and learnerships to equip disadvantaged individuals with the skills needed for employment in solar manufacturing.
• Social Enterprise Development: The plant’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives may support entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector, fostering the growth of locally owned small businesses.

4. Renewable Energy Developers & Solar Installers

Impact: More affordable, locally sourced solar panels for energy projects.

• Independent Power Producers (IPPs): The availability of cost-competitive, locally made solar panels will benefit large-scale renewable energy projects under South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).
• Small-Scale Solar Installers: Entrepreneurs and SMEs involved in residential and commercial solar installation will have access to high-quality, locally produced panels at lower costs.
• Off-Grid & Rural Electrification Projects: Organizations working on solar mini-grids and rural electrification will have a local supply of solar panels, reducing reliance on expensive imports.

5. Government & Public Sector

Impact: Economic growth, energy security, and industrialization.

• Job Creation & Economic Stimulus: The government will benefit from reduced unemployment, increased tax revenues, and local industrial growth.
• Energy Security & Grid Stability: The production of solar panels will support energy diversification, reducing dependence on coal and mitigating power shortages.
• Reduction in Trade Deficit: By manufacturing solar panels locally, South Africa will reduce its import bill, keeping economic value within the country instead of spending billions on foreign solar panel purchases.
• Support for Just Energy Transition: The project aligns with national goals to transition from coal to renewable energy, ensuring that displaced coal workers have new opportunities in the solar sector.

6. Rural & Urban Households (Energy Consumers)

Impact: Lower energy costs and increased access to solar power.

• Lower Solar Panel Prices: The local production of solar panels will help bring down costs, making solar energy more affordable for households and businesses.
• Improved Energy Access for Rural Communities: The availability of affordable solar technology will expand electrification efforts in off-grid and underdeveloped areas, reducing reliance on expensive diesel generators.
• Resilience Against Load Shedding: Households installing locally produced solar panels will experience greater energy independence, mitigating the impact of frequent power cuts.

7. African & International Markets

Impact: Positioning South Africa as a solar technology leader in Africa.

• Regional Export Opportunities: The factory will position South Africa as a solar panel supply hub for neighbouring African countries, strengthening trade relationships.
• Increased Foreign Investment: A strong solar manufacturing industry will attract foreign investors, research institutions, and multinational renewable energy companies looking to establish operations in South Africa.

A Transformational Project for South Africa

The 300MW SPMP is more than just an industrial development, it is a catalyst for economic empowerment, job creation, and renewable energy progress. By reducing reliance on imports, fostering local skills development, and strengthening South Africa’s green economy, this project will directly benefit thousands of people across multiple sectors.

Through local employment, SME growth, affordable solar energy access, and industrial expansion, this initiative will play a crucial role in South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient, and inclusive energy future.

Partnerships 

• Three strategic global investors are on board.
• Discussions underway with Northern Cape Economic Development Agency for proposed project development locations and incentives.
• Discussions with AfCFTA Secretariat.
• Proposal submitted to Just Energy Transition Fund for Feasibility support.
• Department of Energy & Electricity (SAREM) appears to be supportive.

Investment Value

The total value of the project is estimated at USD 200 000 000-00 (Two Hundred Million US or ZAR 3.8 billion).

Number of jobs to be created

• • Direct 300 including Management
  • Indirect 1000 Est
  • Construction Phase +/- 5 000

Targeted sectors

The project focuses on the following sector/s:

• IPPs
• C&Is
• Utilities – Eskom 2.0 Strategic Support
• NC Green Hydrogen scheme
• Residential

Contact

The project currently seeks equity partners. Interested parties are encouraged to send the project team a brief introduction in order to initiate further discussions:

Project history

The Port Nolloth Atlantic Salmon Project forms part of a broader regional aquaculture initiative led by South African Atlantic Salmon (SAAS), developed in partnership with African Aquaculture Company (AAC) and Norwegian technology partners. The concept originated when a group of Norwegian aquaculture pioneers recognised the unique potential of the Benguela Current, which provides cold, nutrient-rich seawater ideal for salmon farming along the west coast of southern Africa.

Initially, AAC established offshore salmon operations in Lüderitz, Namibia, under Namibian Atlantic Salmon (NAS), using sea-based production methods. As part of the natural evolution of this initiative, a land-based expansion model was conceived for South Africa, where offshore conditions are too rough for traditional sea cages but the marine water quality is ideal for onshore flow-through systems.

SAAS was established in 2024 as a dedicated South African entity to develop this new onshore salmon farming industry. The project is based on Norwegian flow-through technology developed by Andfjord Innovation, which combines the biological advantages of sea farming with the environmental control and efficiency of land-based systems. This technology ensures high fish welfare, energy efficiency, and minimal ecological impact.

Following extensive site investigations supported by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), two sites were identified for development:

• Paternoster (Western Cape) – Phase 1 pilot project (20 tonnes) and Phase 2 expansion site
• Port Nolloth (Namaqua Mariculture Park, Northern Cape) – Phase 2 expansion site

The Port Nolloth project will be the first large-scale onshore salmon operation in the Northern Cape, forming part of the Namaqua Mariculture Development Zone under the Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy Programme. It represents the regional expansion of SAAS’s model and a key step toward achieving a long-term production capacity of 100 000 tonnes per annum of sustainably farmed Atlantic salmon in Southern Africa.

The initiative combines Norwegian expertise and technology transfer with South African empowerment and local participation, in partnership with the Basani Marine Group (a 71% black-owned aquaculture investment company). It will contribute significantly to job creation, food security, export revenue, and regional economic diversification in the Northern Cape.

• Targeted sector: Aquaculture – Onshore Salmon Farming

Development area:

Description of the project

Southern African Atlantic Salmon (SAAS) aims to establish the first large-scale onshore Atlantic salmon farming operation in South Africa, using cutting-edge Norwegian flow-through technology. The company is looking at multiple locations along the coastline in the Western and Northern Cape provinces. The project will commence with a 20-tonne phase one in Paternoster, followed by a full-scale 10 000-tonne production phase.

SAAS is targeting to build a sustainable and ecologically sound fish farming industry in South Africa based on the learnings obtained in Norway over the last decades. Hatching eggs of salmon and trout in order to increase fish abundance in rivers and (re)introduction of fish in closed waters have a 170 years tradition in Norway and the industry has grown significantly over the last decades. The long term target is to produce 100,000 tonnes per annum of Atlantic Salmon in South Africa.

The West coast of southern Africa, from Gansbaai and up to Lüderitz, has ideal water temperatures for farming of Atlantic salmon. The Benguela current is transporting cold water from the Antarctic with typical water temperatures from 10 ºC to 16 ºC. East of Cape Agulhas, the water temperature is assumed to be too high for farming of Atlantic salmon. However, the South African coastline has very few sheltered bays that can be utilized for traditional net pen production and the available bays have depth restrictions, thus the farming is assumed to start onshore in controlled environment whereas offshore production units may be installed in the future.

SAAS will spear-head this potentially new industry in South Africa based on recent technological innovations from Norway. The company is searching for sites in South Africa and the team has visited multiple sites along the coastline of Northern and Western Cape based on recommendations from DFFE. Currently, two sites have been identified for salmon farming, the Namaqua Mariculture Park in Port Nolloth and the Oyster farm in Paternoster and the company has started to work on high level development plans for these areas.

The team has over the last years put in significant time and resources for development of salmon farming in South Africa. Combined knowledge of salmon farming and in-depth understanding of the specific sites and sea conditions provide the intellectual property to ensure success of this exciting venture.

Being a first in its kind in South Africa, the development will consist of multiple stages:

• Smolt will initially be produced at the Fizantakraal freshwater site in the vicinity of Paarl for continued supply of smolt. For commercial quantities a new company, “Benguela Smolt SA”, was incorporated to operate all future smolt requirements.
• Phase One to showcase the concept of farming salmon onshore in South Africa.
• Phase Two with construction of 8 pools for grow-out of salmon in commercial quantities of 10 000 tonnes to meet increasing demand domestically as well as for export.

A site has been secured for the initial smolt production, Fizantakraal, which takes place in fresh water. The site has been operating for more than 20 years and has also produced salmon smolt before, in addition to trout ova for export.

The project will follow the aquaculture regulations in South Africa and the project development will be based on the outcome of the pilot and the environmental impact assessment (the EIA report).

The company will import ova from leading suppliers, hatch the ova and grow the smolt to 100-150 grams in its facility in South Africa, and transport the smolt by road to the grow-out site in Paternoster. The salmon will be grown to 3,5 – 5 kg in onshore basins, before slaughtering and selling the salmon into the Southern African market until volumes reach the marked size where after export markets have been identified.

Operations are planned to start, subject to regulatory constraints, with import of ova in 2025 to start production of smolt. After approximately one year, the smolt can be transferred to the sea-water basins for the grow out phase which takes another year (12-14 months). After demonstrating commercial viability in South Africa, SAAS is planning a production ramp-up in steps of 10 000 tonnes towards the long-term goal of 100 000 tonnes production capacity in onshore basins split at different locations. Each production step of 10 000 tonnes is expected to give an annual revenue of around 80-million EUR based on the average salmon price of 8 EUR/kg .

The Pilot stage is expected to last for 2 – 3 years and with an expected corresponding investment of 3-million EUR.

For each 10 000 tonnes step, the capex investment is estimated to around 1,3-billion Rand.

The initiative aligns with South Africa’s Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy strategy and contributes to national goals for food security, job creation, and foreign currency generation.

Partnership

• Private sector
• Local municipality
• DFFE
• Stellenbosch University

Invest / Partner 

Potential private sector investment or business partners are encouraged to make contact with the project team. Please provide a brief introduction and summary of potential level of engagement:

There is an opportunity for Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to develop an Aviation Park at Upington International Airport.

The development can accommodate aircraft maintenance, repair and overhauling (MRO) facilities as well as services such as aircraft storage, end-of-lease refurbishment or scrapping, parts distribution and cargo development.

The climate and space for aircraft storage, the viability for green (solar) energy and a greenfield site to construct a state-of-the-art facility make Upington International Airport a favourable location for an MRO facility.

Targeted sectors

• Infrastructure
• Real estate
• Construction
• Renewable energy

Project description

Upington International Airport’s 4.9 km runway allows it to land the largest aircraft. Airports Company South Africa is a partner in the application to run the Upington Industrial Park (UIP) and has allocated 55 ha for the creation of an Aviation Park to store and maintain aircraft and a further 30 ha for commercial development.

The planned storage facility could also support a variety of related sectors such as modification and demolition, parts manufacturing and warehousing and ground support equipment (GSE) repair.

Project elements

• Parking and storage of aircraft: includes the parking and stripping of aircraft and the recycling of spare parts for maintenance purposes
• Cargo hub: increase of cargo facility for important export purposes including truck stop
• Car rental facilities: providing improved facilities for car rental companies
• Electronics hub
• Solar farm project

Project finance 

• • Public Private Partnership
  • Equity Partners/Investors
  • Property Developers

Project status

A feasibility study was concluded which indicated that the projects present a viable business opportunity for ACSA and the local community. The study indicated that the development could be very lucrative.

Partnerships

• • ACSA
  • Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

Contact / Enquire

Also see: Opportunities in Upington Industrial Park – superb infrastructure in key location

• Province: Northern Cape Province, South Africa
• District: Frances Baard and Pixley ka Seme District Municipality
• City/Town: Barkley West, Prieska and Carnarvon

Project background

Quiver Green Group (Pty) Ltd. is classified as an Ecosystem-based Adaptation business. As a bio-economy sector enterprise it ventures throughout the various value-chains of the green economy in South Africa, with a primary focus on the Northern Cape Province.

The business focuses on harvesting biomass for firewood, woodchips, charcoal production and for the establishment of a bioenergy generation plant.

Quiver Biomass Industries therefore as project operates in both downstream and upstream economic opportunities of the biomass value-chain, utilising and beneficiating biomass sourced from clearing invasive alien plant species and bush thinning of bush encroachment woody species.

The benefits from this biomass beneficiation project are significant as they contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation, whilst resulting in various other benefits such as:

1. Economic benefits in the bio-economy;
2. Environmental benefits which speak to biodiversity and ecological benefits; and
3. Social impact benefits that are aligned to driving a Just Energy Transition.

Targeted sectors

• Primary: Green economy and Bio-economy
• Secondary: Includes cross-cutting sectors through value adding i.e. manufacturing, trade and energy sectors.

Investment value

• Phase 1: R50-million
• Phase 2: R100-million

Private sector involvement invited to participate:

• Equity Partners / Investors
• Commercial Companies
• Industrial Companies
• Advisors

Number of Jobs to be created

Establishment of minimum 16 rural micro enterprises and creating 256 to 500 direct and indirect jobs within five years from establishment.

Description of the project

Quiver Biomass Industries, utilising biomass sourced from clearing invasive alien plant species and bush thinning of bush encroachment woody species, will produce value added products for the following domestic and international markets:

• Energy market: Pellets and wood chips.
• Pyrolised market: Charcoal and activated carbon products.
• Agricultural Input market: Soil additives and animal feeds.
• Carbon / Compost market: Biochar and sequestration products.
• Restoration market: Landscape clearing and restoration products.
• Timber / Fibre market: Eco-furniture and innovative green building materials.
• Niche markets: Biofuels and chemicals.

Quiver Green Group (Pty) Ltd. is currently looking for future export markets to sell 10 000 tonnes of environmentally friendly charcoal per annum, as well as export markets for its wood chips.

Partnerships in place:

• NC Department of Economic Development and Tourism
• NC Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform

Contact

Companies and investors interested in the project are invited to contact the team:

Project background

Through the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (AsgiSA), public sector infrastructure investment in the form of bulk water and water distribution has increased and important issues have been tackled.

Core agricultural strategies have sought to:

• Enhance equitable access to and participation in agricultural opportunities and to unlock entrepreneurial potential.
• Enhance profitability through sustained global competitiveness in the agricultural sector’s input supply, primary production, agro-processing and agro-tourism industries.
• Enhance farmers’ capacities to use resources in a sustainable manner and to ensure the wise use and management of natural resources.

For example, assets mainly sitting in the hands of black farmers but without commercial value has been addressed through zoning and Agricultural Hubs. Through other support initiatives such as the Orange River Farmer Settlement and Development Programme, 4 000 ha Water Rights Programme and the Land and Agrarian Reform Programme, the Namakwa Irrigation Development was born.

Project description

The project will develop approximately 3 200 ha of high-potential arable land in the Namakwa District. This arable land is located in 11 distinct areas. Each of these have been described, planned and costed individually. Onseepkans has been identified as the pilot to this larger project and the bulk water system is being constructed. Of the identified land, 2 000ha has existing water licences. A further 1 200 ha will have to be secured.

The basket of products to be produced include cash crops such as lucerne and grains, but the bulk of the development is aimed at high-value crops with export potential in order to secure significant growth on the required investment.

This development will generate R521-million per annum in value of production when in full production. It will lead to an increase in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Namakwa District. Additional value will be added through inputs such as machinery and equipment, chemicals, packing material, fuel, electricity, water, etc.

This development would add an additional R200-million to the Namakwa economy on a direct level. Adding the indirect and induced levels, the impact on GDP exceeds R272-million per annum for the entire economy.

Project finance

The project so far has been funded by government through conditional grant funding but it is expected that strategic and equity partners will be invited to participate.

The anchor project of the Namakwa Irrigation Development is in Onseepkans and over R120-million is being spent by government on the bulk water and water distribution networks to irrigate plots and new developments.

A further R30-million has been spent in the development and maintenance of vineyards to produce export raisins. Equity investors and BBBEE investors are sought.

Project status

The anchor project is currently being developed and stakeholders include the IDC and Raisins SA. Bankable business plans and feasibility studies have been conducted.

Partnerships

• Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (Provincial and National)
• IDC
• Khai-Ma Local Municipality

Invest in this project:

For more information about the investment opportunity, please contact the team here with reference: Namakwa Irrigation Project.

[contact-form-7]

The Victoria West Aerodrome is strategically situated between the N12, N1 and R63. It was the fuelling aerodrome for flights from London to Cape Town in the 1950s and has significant historical value.

Project description

Rehabilitation and development of the existing Aerodrome to service businesses, tourism and projects within a 300km radius of Victoria West. Develop the Aerodrome with a fire station to service the Aerodrome and the local municipality.

Targeted sectors

• Agriculture
• Drone facilities and flying school
• Export through aviation
• Aviation
• Logistics and distribution
• Car rental

Investment value

• Immediate: R10-million
• Short/medium term: R55-million
• Long term: R25-million
• Total: R100-million

Project Finance

• Grant funding is required for the terminal building and runways.
• Equity funding is required for the warehousing and logistics buildings, hangers and flying school facilities.

Project status

A 22-year lease agreement has been signed with the Ubuntu Municipality. All suspensive conditions have been met.

Employment

• Short term: 500 construction phase
• Long term: 150 permanent jobs

Partnerships

The Rural Aerodrome Company (Pty) Ltd will investigate all partnerships.

Contact:

Interested parties are encouraged to contact the project team. Please reference Victoria West Aerodrome when replying.