“Limpopo Rising: R120 billion‑plus pledges ignite ‘Africa’s New Investment Frontier’”

Premier Dr  Phophi  Ramathuba

By Mpho Dube, Editor‑in‑Chief, The Azanian

Polokwane, 30 October 2025 — The 5th Limpopo Investment Conference is roaring to life at The Ranch Resort, and the buzz is all about turning the province into Africa’s next big investment frontier.

Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba opened the two‑day event with the theme “Limpopo Rising — Africa’s New Investment Frontier,” stressing that the province’s “favourable climate for apricots and nectarines, a fresh trade pact with China, and a comprehensive industrialisation strategy” are the levers for inclusive growth.

Ramathuba reminded delegates that the 2024 conference already catalysed a staggering R120.3 billion in new pledges, and the numbers keep getting bigger. Over the past four conferences, investors have promised R282 billion, of which R66 billion has already materialised, creating more than 20,000 jobs in mining, energy, infrastructure and other sectors. “Only 24 % of pledges have turned into actual funding, but the momentum is clear,” she said, pointing to projects worth R19.2 billion already underway, such as Ivanplats’ mining venture and Generic Core’s sustainable‑energy plant.

The Premier also unveiled the Limpopo Investment Book 2025, mapping more than R32 billion in fresh opportunities, from agriculture and green‑hydrogen to the Musina‑Makhado Special Economic Zone.

Today, the excitement was palpable as the Premier, Minister of Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, MECs — including Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure MEC Tonny Rachoene, Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, Economic Development MEC Tshitereke Matibe and Treasury MEC Kgabo Mahoai — and a host of conference attendees embarked on an exciting walkabout.

They strolled through vibrant business stalls, discovering the latest innovations and opportunities in Limpopo’s thriving investment landscape: the Steelport Bridge, the new Provincial Academic Hospital, the Exxaro renewable‑energy plant, the Provincial Theatre, and a showcase of agro‑processing, mining, green‑energy and tourism projects.

“Limpopo is no longer a hidden gem; it’s an investment frontier,” Ramathuba declared, thanking the whole provincial team and private‑sector partners. “We’re building the highways, power lines and SEZs that make it happen,” she added, inviting investors to seize the untapped potential. With the event livestreamed (register at (link unavailable)) and the province’s strong export reach — 36 % to the EU, 20 % to the Middle East, 13 % to the UK and growing Asian, North American and African markets — the mood is electric: new industries, job creation, poverty reduction and a bigger tax base are within reach.

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Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba Minister of Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, MECs — including Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure MEC Tonny Rachoene, Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, Economic Development MEC Tshitereke Matibe and Treasury MEC Kgabo Mahoai — and a host of conference attendees embarked on an exciting walkabout.