Billions pledged despite KZN protests
Despite recent protests and unrest in KZN, investors pledged over R120 billion at the KZN Investment Conference for the advancement of the province.
Despite protests in KwaZulu-Natal, the 2026 investment conference exceeded expectations by attracting nearly R30 billion more in pledges than initially projected. The event, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, was spearheaded by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, alongside government ministers and industry leaders.
Investors from 47 companies pledged a combined R124.5 billion, surpassing the province's goal of R95 billion. Premier Ntuli emphasized that the government will distribute these investments across all districts, while Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau encouraged stakeholders to explore the opportunities outlined in the KZN Investment Opportunities Booklet for 2026-2028.
Tau highlighted that these projects represent both the current state and future ambitions of the province. Notably, Senzo Esihle Rail pledged the largest amount at R34,104 billion, followed by Afchlor (Pty) Ltd, AJ Property Holdings (Pty) Ltd, Azania MediaWorks (Pty) Ltd, Bidvest Freight, and Cedar Falls Properties 205 (Pty) Ltd.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
