The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) speaks on the significant progress in the development of the Wild Coast Industrial Park, a pivotal project aimed at enhancing economic growth and industrialisation in the Eastern Cape Province.<\/p>\n
Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega\u2019s Unit Head of Marketing, Brand, and Communications, emphasising Coega’s 25 years of experience and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification, stated that Coega is spearheading the project’s implementation to enhance state capacity and service delivery, ensuring the realisation of the Wild Coast Industrial Park to drive economic transformation and uplift the region.<\/p>\n
The Wild Coast Industrial Park was established to bolster the agro-processing sector, promote the beneficiation of agricultural resources, build manufacturing capabilities, and rejuvenate Mthatha and surrounding areas as a significant industrial hub. Aligned with the District Development Model, the project prioritises job creation, infrastructure development, and innovation in rural provinces and districts.<\/p>\n
Spanning 226 hectares, the park boasts proximity to major transport routes, robust infrastructure development, and a strategic location central to three district municipalities. With signed investment commitments from sectors such as agroprocessing, beverage manufacturing, poultry processing, and starch manufacturing, the Park showcases its potential as a vital industrial hub.<\/p>\n
During the 2022 State of the Province Address (SOPA), the Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Lubabalo Mabuyane, declared that the “Wild Coast Industrial Park is no longer a dream, it is a reality.” Progress has been made, with the completion of phase 1 (fencing) and the rollout of bulk infrastructure, including sanitation, water, and electricity. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has invested R49.5 million in the project, expected for completion in November 2025.<\/p>\n
According to the former Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Honourable Ebrahim Patel, during the 2022 budget vote, \u201cTransformation is about building an economy that works where our people are bringing development to rural provinces and districts. Our revised approach to spatial industrial policy, informed by the District Development Model, will see the dtic supporting projects that create jobs, infrastructure, and innovation in Districts across the country.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Wild Coast Industrial Park aligns with this approach, and the Eastern Cape Provincial Government is currently implementing the Wild Coast Industrial Park Strategy, driving its development forward.<\/p>\n