The department of economic development and tourism hosted the Free State Industrialisation Indaba on Thursday (29/1) in Bloemfontein, as part of ongoing efforts to advance industrial development and inclusive economic growth in the province. The outcomes of the indaba will guide plans to boost industry, growth, and long-term jobs.

The private sector, higher education institutions, development finance institutions, and industry leaders were invited to the indaba to help refine the draft policy.

Through the ongoing development of the provincial industrialisation policy, the province aims to build a more diversified and competitive economy that can respond to both national priorities and global market demands.

“The engagement is critical to ensuring the policy is practical and implementable,” said Free State Destea acting HOD Pakiso Lebone. “The main objective of the Indaba is to allow the private sector, academia, and other stakeholders to improve and strengthen the policy through input and evidence-based research.

“The collaboration extends beyond policy development and will include implementation, ensuring partners remain involved in practical execution. Following the engagement, the department aims to finalise a clear implementation plan supported by resolutions emerging from the indaba.”

Key sectors identified in the draft policy include textiles, manufacturing, agro-processing, and the automotive sector. These industries are expected to form part of the province’s long-term industrial expansion strategy, he said.

Discussions at the indaba focused on industrial competitiveness and innovation, infrastructure and logistics, policy alignment, and investment support.

 Stakeholders also explored ways to improve market access for existing businesses and create a sustainable environment for industrialisation to thrive.

An opposition party criticised the indaba. “Indabas are not going to bring investment into the Free State,” said Free State DA leader Roy Jankielsohn. “What we require in the province is sound municipal services such as water, electricity, infrastructure, and decent roads. 

‘Get basics right’

“We need roads so that goods and services can be transported backwards and forwards across the province. Once the provincial government and municipalities have  these basic things in place, then they can invite investors to come and invest in the Free State.”

Lebone said outcomes of the indaba are expected to play a key role in shaping the final industrialisation policy and guiding the province’s economic transformation agenda.

The indaba was attended by representatives from development finance institutions, academia, industry, business chambers, municipal local economic development units, and sector experts.

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame cvs