Matjhabeng Municipality has taken a major step toward revitalising its regional economy with the official site handover for the R5 billion project. This transformative development is part of a broader strategy that includes the creation of a special economic zone (SEZ) and the revitalisation of the Phakisa Raceway.

Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipa formally handed over the site of the current Welkom Airport to Sébastien Investissements et Logistique, the company spearheading the airport’s redevelopment into an international cargo hub.

“I am happy that plans surrounding the airport are now taking shape, and a whopping R5 billion will be invested in this development,” said Khalipa, highlighting the economic and entrepreneurial opportunities this project will bring.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth and called on all contractors involved to ensure the project’s successful execution.

Sébastien Investissements et Logistique’s CEO, Mark Brummer, confirmed that formal site inspections and preparations for construction will commence on June 24. “After months of intense planning, engineering, refinements, and intergovernmental engagements, the airport is officially entering its implementation phase.”

The upgraded airport will feature a 5 km runway and accommodate large cargo aircraft, as well as passenger and private planes. Brummer also announced plans to establish training facilities that will equip local residents with the skills needed to fill positions currently occupied by contract staff.

The cargo airport project is just one of several strategic initiatives under the Matjhabeng Local Municipality aimed at driving economic renewal in the Free State’s Goldfields region, which includes Welkom, Odendaalsrus, and Virginia.

OFM News previously reported that a SEZ, a cargo airport and the revitalisation of the Phakisa Raceway are all on the cards for Matjhabeng.

The airfield at Welkom. Photo: http://www.aeroplanez.co.za/

According to the municipality, this milestone event highlights its commitment to transparent, lawful development and its preparedness to attract catalytic investment into the region.

OFM News cg