MEC Lebogang Maile’s Vision for Economic Growth at the Gauteng Investment Conference 2025
At the Gauteng Investment Conference held today, the 3rd of April 2025, MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, unveiled the province’s bold and ambitious vision for becoming Africa’s leading investment destination. The conference, aimed at securing long-term commitments from both domestic and international investors, highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic development and addressing regional challenges.
In his address, MEC Maile emphasized that Gauteng’s strategic position as the economic powerhouse of South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) makes it an ideal investment destination. The province contributes over 33% to South Africa’s GDP and plays a crucial role in driving the continent’s growth, accounting for around 7% of Africa’s total GDP.
Key Objectives and Achievements
MEC Maile outlined several key objectives of the Gauteng Investment Conference, among which the goal of attracting R800 billion in investments over the next five years stands out. By securing R312.5 billion in pledges during the conference, the province has already exceeded its initial target, signaling strong confidence from investors. The pledges, coming from regions as diverse as South Africa, the USA, the EU, India, and China, underline Gauteng’s global appeal.
The MEC stressed the importance of aligning the province’s economic strategy with the broader goals of regional integration and sustainable development. He pointed to the comprehensive Sector Plans developed in 2024, focusing on areas such as manufacturing, ICT, transport, logistics, and the green economy. These plans aim to boost industrialization, foster skills development, and promote SMME growth, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are widely shared.
Sectoral Focus and Development Corridors
One of the standout elements of Maile’s speech was the introduction of the five development corridors across Gauteng, each with distinct projects and objectives. These corridors represent key areas where investment is being channeled to unlock Gauteng’s full potential. The Northern Corridor, for example, focuses on the automotive and aerospace industries, while the Southern Corridor aims to develop agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy. Each corridor is designed to address specific needs and opportunities within Gauteng, positioning the province as a crucial player in the global economy.
MEC Maile highlighted the development of economic hubs in sectors such as mining, construction, and agro-processing, underscoring the need for infrastructure investment to support these initiatives. From modernizing transport networks to establishing new logistics hubs, the infrastructure agenda is central to the province’s growth.
Inclusive Growth and the Township Economy
A central theme in the MEC’s speech was the emphasis on inclusive economic growth. Reflecting on the legacy of apartheid, Maile underscored the need for redress and inclusion, particularly for women and youth. Since 2020, the province has supported over 1200 SMMEs, with significant contributions from women and youth-led enterprises. Initiatives such as the Township Industrial Parks Programme are helping to bring previously marginalized communities into the economic mainstream, creating opportunities for small-scale businesses to thrive.
Looking Ahead
MEC Maile’s vision for Gauteng is one of transformation, growth, and inclusivity. By focusing on infrastructure development, leveraging the province’s strategic location, and fostering global partnerships, Gauteng is poised to lead South Africa and Africa into a new era of economic prosperity.
The pledges secured at the Gauteng Investment Conference 2025 are a testament to the confidence investors have in the province’s growth potential. With a commitment to sustainable development and strategic partnerships, Gauteng is well on its way to realizing its goal of becoming the gateway to Africa’s future.
