Sasol's enterprise development vehicle, Sasol ChemCity has aligned and integrated the development with the Metsimaholo and Fezile Dabi municipalities' integrated development plans, which aim to stimulate the local economy through sustainable job creation opportunities and attracting investment into the area. The multi-million rand site will ensure the occupants receive the benefits of a conventional industrial park with an additional benefit of being environmentally friendly.
Phase 1 of the site has just over 100 stands available for sale and, together with a proposed business incubator, will be able to cater for the business needs of hundreds of businesses. Occupants will also benefit from the location, as the park is in close proximity to other large industries, has access to locally skilled labour force and existing road infrastructure to export/import hubs. However, the cherry on top for most occupants will be the 10-year rates and tax holiday until 31 December 2018, which is in place for all occupants.
The company is also in discussion with various partner organisations to co-fund the establishment of a mixed-use business incubator. The incubator will provide a wide range of business development support services, shared resources and infrastructure to support the establishment of new enterprises, and fast track the growth of existing small enterprises. One of its main roles will be to facilitate business linkages between existing large companies and incubates, as well as host various training and capacity building programmes.
One of the primary attributes is its ability to minimise its carbon footprint with a long-term strategy to implement carbon reduction projects. Mechanisms are in place for entrepreneurs to utilise alternate building technologies, solar geysers, solar panels and other eco-friendly tools. By bringing revolutionary thinking to the conventional buzz around industrial parks, the project hopes to promote a green building philosophy in other regions.
Brutus Mahlangu, executive mayor of the Metsimaholo municipality said, "This project is a prime example of an effective collaboration - one which will bode well for our future generations. Not only will it assist to reduce carbon emissions, but it also encourages and promotes responsible industry development."
Sasol ChemCity's MD, Bridgitte Backman, said the site is an important step towards a greener and more effective business practice, for both the entrepreneurial and environmental community. "Through strategic partnerships we are delivering projects which not only meet international standards but also talk to our South African needs. Sasol ChemCity is committed to playing a strong and constructive role in the South African business environment, and to supporting government's objectives of socio-economic development."
The company's mandate is to help eradicate poverty through job creation initiatives, targeting the SMME sector, and focusing on chemical, energy and related industries. It also focuses on supplier development and social enterprise development to ensure that the communities in which the group operates have a better quality of life.
