GEORGE NEWS - Fast-growing George is classified as an "intermediate city" and, as such, plays a vital role in connecting the economic activities of the Garden Route region, says Deputy Finance Minister Ashor Sarupen.

Speaking to about 200 attendees at the highly successful Regional Investment Conference in Knysna on Friday 15 November, he said National Treasury's Neighbourhood Development Partnership Programme has supported George Municipality in creating an investment plan and area management plan for Thembalethu township.

"These plans include a detailed development framework, a land use budget, and a pipeline of projects aimed at transforming Thembalethu into a well-serviced, dynamic community hub. 

"The area management plan, in particular, proposes income-generating streams to ensure sustainable precinct management," he said.

Sarupen highlighted key projects and funding initiatives in Thembalethu:

• Thembalethu urban hub cross-cutting design and planning interventions. With a budget of R3.5m, this project focuses on holistic planning at the township's core, creating a foundation for future development.
• Realignment of Nelson Mandela Road. This R4.1m project enhances connectivity, making it easier for residents and businesses to move within and beyond Thembalethu.
• Public realm upgrades. A R14m initiative, these upgrades are enhancing public spaces and essential services, making Thembalethu a safer, more attractive place to live and work.

Potential for growth

"These projects are about more than just bricks and mortar. They represent a vision of transformation - creating an environment where residents can thrive, where businesses feel welcome, and where private capital sees potential for growth," Sarupen said.

"The Garden Route has the capacity to lead South Africa's inclusive growth agenda, but realising this vision requires active engagement from all stakeholders. This is a call to action for each of us in this room. 

"Let us invest not only in the physical assets of the Garden Route but also in its people, culture, and future. Together, we can create a region that serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for South Africa, a place where every community shares in the benefits of growth, and where every resident has a stake in its success."

Agro-processing, eco-tourism

He spoke on leveraging tourism and agriculture in the region for diversified growth.

"The Garden Route's natural assets are well-known globally, attracting visitors each year who bring significant economic benefit. However, beyond tourism, the region has robust agricultural potential, including fruit, forestry, and aquaculture industries that offer stable, long-term growth prospects.

"Our vision for the Garden Route includes expanding these traditional industries and integrating them with new economic activities, such as agro-processing and eco-tourism."

Green technologies

On the Government of National Unity's plans to establish 'green' industry on the Garden Route, he said, "As we seek to attract investment, we are positioning the Garden Route as a region of innovation, particularly in sustainability".

"Investments in green technologies, waste-to-energy facilities, and renewable energy projects are already under discussion.

"The National Treasury is committed to ensuring that these sectors have the support they need to grow, innovate, and contribute to our goal of reducing South Africa's carbon footprint.

Future generations

"Economic sustainability means supporting growth that does not come at the expense of future generations. This involves careful management of resources, adopting green technologies and climate-proofing new infrastructure investments, and ensuring that development projects are environmentally sound.

"Building resilience in our communities is equally important. By investing in infrastructure that is designed to withstand the challenges posed by climate change, economic shifts, and population growth, we can create a region that is adaptable and capable of thriving no matter the circumstances."

'Health-conscious markets'

Garden Route District Municipality Mayor Andrew Stroebel told the attendees of the agricultural commodities being exported from the area.

"The top exports include, but are not limited to, canola, wines, ostriches, strawberries, avos and blueberries. In terms of the potential commodities that are ready to be exported, honeybush is on top of the list.

"Globally, the demand for high-quality agricultural products has surged, as seen in countries like New Zealand, which has successfully marketed its Manuka honey as a premium export. Same with our honeybush tea, which could become a globally recognised product, tapping into health-conscious markets," he said.

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