MEC Jesta Sidell has officially launched the 2025 Mpumalanga Investment and Mining Conference, which will be hosted in Middelburg on 2 and 3 October. The gathering is aimed at boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and attracting new investment to the province.

Speaking at the launch, the MEC said: “This conference is a critical step in our mission to not only reaffirm Mpumalanga’s position as a mining powerhouse, but also diversify our economy and attract new investment across a range of sectors.”

The theme of the conference is Driving Investment for a Sustainable and Inclusive Economy. The MEC confirmed that government would showcase an “investment book” of key projects covering mining, renewable energy, tourism, and agro-processing.

She highlighted that Mpumalanga contributes 7.8% to South Africa’s GDP, making it the fourth largest contributor nationally. “We must build a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy that benefits all our people,” she added.

The MEC also revealed that the province aims to secure at least R50 billion in investment pledges, with international partners and ambassadors invited. “Together with the private sector, we will cultivate foresight to anticipate challenges and unlock opportunities,” she said.