​Thembisa Shologu
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged investors to explore Gauteng's many opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and investment in projects that yield returns and positively impact people's lives.
Speaking at the first annual Gauteng Investment Conference at Melrose Arch on Thursday, Deputy President Mashatile said that investors should capitalise on Gauteng's strategic location, which offered a competitive edge in the Southern African region for trade and investment.
Initially, the Gauteng Provincial Government aimed to attract R300 billion rands in investment but has since exceeded the target by over R12 billion in commitments.  
"The province should invest in education and skills development programmes to ensure that the workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a growing economy. The highly sought-after skills include digital literacy, data analysis, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and renewable energy technologies.
"Therefore, investing in Gauteng is not just about financial returns; it is about investing in the future of our people, communities, and nation. It is about creating sustainable partnerships that drive economic development and social progress," said Mashatile. 
He said Gauteng needed to invest in maintaining its infrastructure to ensure long-term functionality, safety, and economic viability.
In addition, he said the province should also focus on investing in emerging sectors like technology, innovation, and renewable energy that have the potential to drive our future growth plans.
"This does not imply that the province should disregard its current initiatives; instead, it is essential to maintain investment in infrastructure, such as transport and logistics, to attract additional investment and stimulate economic activity.
"Infrastructure is sometimes referred to as the 'wheel of economic activity' since it creates an environment conducive to productive activities and promotes development," he said.
He applauded the GPG for working hard to eliminate crime through its Crime Prevention Wardens initiative, which is tasked with augmenting crime prevention efforts in the province. 
Mashatile said the government's vision was for a peaceful and secure Gauteng, where economic growth was inclusive and everyone prospered.
"We know that crime significantly impacts investment, directly through increased costs and indirectly by deterring businesses and investors and ultimately hindering economic growth and development. 
"It is for this reason that we must work hard to eliminate crime, including extortion by those who want to exploit the state and its people for their own selfish gains," said Saif, the deputy president.
He called on the provincial government and the City of Johannesburg to invest more in infrastructure programs, particularly within the inner city, especially its cleanliness. 
In February, the South African Local Government Association's National Executive Council Lekgotla committed to a 'Clean City Campaign' to clean towns and cities. 
"We want it to start here in Gauteng, in Johannesburg. The goal is to set an example for other cities, attracting more investors and creating jobs for local communities, especially the youth. 
"Such revitalisation must begin with fixing potholes and general maintenance of the current infrastructure," Mashatile said.