MAPSEZ urged to strengthen ties with govt

By Emily Setona

TSIAME – The Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, stressed the need for closer collaboration between the Maluti-A-Phofung Special Economic Zone (MAPSEZ) and government structures, emphasizing that enhanced coordination is key to addressing infrastructure challenges and unlocking the SEZ’s full economic potential.

As the champion of the District Development Model (DDM), Mohai called on the government to integrate MAPSEZ into broader economic planning.

“The infrastructure needs of MAPSEZ – especially water and electricity – must be prioritized in municipal and district budgets,” he said during his oversight visit to the SEZ on February 26.

“Governance, water, and electricity supply remain critical issues that require urgent intervention. It need not take long to resolve these challenges. With the right infrastructure in place, MAPSEZ can become a game-changer for economic development.”

Echoing these concerns, Maluti-A-Phofung Executive Mayor Malekula Melato urged MAPSEZ CEO Mpho Mgemane to engage more closely with local government.

“Sometimes it feels as though the CEO is distant, yet this SEZ is part of our local municipality. We want to support MAPSEZ in overcoming its water and electricity challenges. As I always say, ‘Together, we can do more.’”

Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality Executive Mayor Conny Msibi also called for greater transparency from the SEZ leadership.

“We are eager to support MAPSEZ, but often we’re left wondering about the CEO’s actions. After this visit and her presentation, we now have a clearer understanding of what is needed. We are ready to work together to help MAPSEZ reach its full potential,” Msibi added.

Responding to these calls, Mgemane assured that MAPSEZ is actively pursuing sustainable investment despite the infrastructure hurdles. “We are focused on attracting viable investors with their own capital who are prepared to build long-term operations within MAPSEZ. While establishing an SEZ takes time, we are putting all systems in place to support businesses effectively,” she said.

Positioned strategically along the N3 highway between Johannesburg and Durban, MAPSEZ is a vital economic hub with access to major trade routes and the Transnet railway network. However, without the necessary infrastructure investment, these advantages remain underutilized. The commitment by both local and national leaders to align MAPSEZ’s needs with municipal planning and budgeting through the DDM is a crucial step toward ensuring its long-term success.

With renewed pledges of support from local and district officials, the focus now shifts to concrete action. The future of MAPSEZ, they agree, will hinge on strengthened partnerships, transparent planning, and decisive implementation of infrastructure solutions.