​Rofhiwa Marubini 
The Sedibeng Investment Conference has laid the foundation for further public-private partnerships to transform and ensure sustainable growth for the region.
"This will unleash the much-needed impetus to implement the Master Plan aimed at building strong linkages between the township and rural economies, create jobs and activate the vital work of the Vaal Special Economic Zone.
"It is time for all of us to re-ignite the birthplace of the industrialisation of South Africa," said Sedibeng Municipality Mayor Lerato Maloka.
Maloka was addressing delegates at the inaugural summit which brought together investors and key stakeholders.
In attendance was Gauteng Premier David Makhura, Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade and Industry and Competition Fikile Majola.
Maloka said investments will revive the area through the Vaal Special Economic Zone.
Department of Economic Development MEC Parks Tau echoed Maloka's sentiments saying the summit is a step in the right direction for building a globally competitive city region.
The Sedibeng municipality has over the years, experienced persistent challenges such as shortage of water supply, electricity, sewage spills and poor maintenance of road infrastructure.
As such, few industries in the district remain and operate at a much less significant scale.
"These industries have not been replaced by new business or industrial activity resulting in a decaying region, that offers few opportunities for business and communities to sustain themselves," said Tau.
The conference saw pledges from investors and businesses which will is set to catalyse the development of the Vaal River City SEZ.