Sixteen companies have invested as part of the initiative that has the potential to create more than 2 000 direct jobs. The Eastern Cape – at over 45% – still has the highest unemployment rate in the country.
The CEO of the East London Industrial Development Zone, Simpiwe Kondlo, says the IDZ is making its mark in the fight against unemployment.
The Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane says there is much to be done to bring down the high rate of unemployment.
“This province has been isolated sort of being detached from the national economic hub. We are trying very hard to turn around the situation and look at our economic fortunes. As a province, we create more diversity. We have been relying on the manufacturing sector for a long time, particularly the auto sector. It has been caring us. We are quite appreciative of that but clearly, we need more economic sectors that must help.”
