Page 9 - RBIDZ

Notably, relying on the current usage and many other electricity a raw and new playing space altogether, however, as government, they
shortcomings in the past, uphold a motivating case for Richards Bay want to ensure that the majority that was previously disadvantaged,
to introduce the energy alternative. are now fully supported technically, financially and further mentored
and coached to accelerate their understanding and participation in the
Provincial government represented by MEC for Economic Development, entire value chain of the industry. He mentioned that as government,
Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr Sihle Zikalala honoured and “we do not want to see our people being exploited by the minority
addressed the Gas Summit delegates from across the globe. and being made “fronters” in the businesses, whereas the minority
He mentioned that as the provincial government, “we are excited continue to reap the benefits of the economy”. “We want to see our
that we were nominated as the preferred destination to host the LNG people acquiring skills, being exposed to the advanced technology
gas-to-power plant, and we further pride ourselves that eventually all and being included in the distribution of wealth”. By the end of the
the role players, industry stakeholders and seasoned experts in the Summit, one could take note of the more energised and assured
energy sector have not only showed interest to explore the energy delegates and role players, regardless of the slow pace in kick-starting
space however they have on numerous occasions visited the Richards the next milestones of the project, however, MEC, Sihle Zikalala was
Bay Industrial Development Zone on a mission to study the landscape able to present and display the support and readiness of the Province
and potential of setting up the gas-to-power project infrastructure. to host the project.
This shows that there are keen players who are willing to put in a
financial muscle in this project… and today, I am standing in front
of you giving you assurance that indeed this is a beautiful province,
boasting beautiful views, accessible rail and roads with already existing
pipelines going up to Mozambique, deep - water port of Richards Bay
and a supportive government towards this mission and not only the
provincial government but South African government as a whole”.

Zikalala further emphasised that politically, South Africa is stable
and a better choice for investments hence thrives to attract both
domestic and foreign direct investments into the country and province
are prioritised.

The Summit not only focused on the energy project in isolation,
however, it pondered on Black Industrialists and how they can be
included in being role players in the various sectors but mainly the
energy sector with full participation. The MEC, Sihle Zikalala further
poured his heart out on how he views the full participation of the
previously disadvantaged groups, he admitted that this sector may be

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