Mpuma lures investors via net

Mpumalanga's department of economic development and planning has set up a website that enables the public and private sector to find opportunities that exist in the province, said department spokesperson Simangaliso Shongwe.

Mpumalanga has an average economic growth rate is 4.2%, according to statisticians Global Insight.

But it has an unemployment rate of 41%, despite supplying South Africa with most of the country's electricity (70%) and coal (80%).

"These sectors yield a lot of profit but employ a small number of people," explained Shongwe.

He said the department was seeking ways to unlock under-utilised sectors of the province's economy.

"We have a R3.3m economic research and planning programme to conduct such research," said Shongwe.

The website contains details on the provinces strategic objectives, tourism opportunities, legislation, consumer protection services and information on vacancies.

"This will allow interested investors and the public to know the strategies undertaken by the province," Shongwe said.

According to the 2001 population census, 45% of Mpumalanga's population doesn't participate in the economy and 27% of people over 20 have never been to school.

The province has a population of 3.8 million people.

"The province lacks formal skills and this is critical in developing any economy," said Shongwe.

He said Mpumalanga could no longer rely on its minerals resources, but that its people needed to start creating employment instead of seeking work.

"Our people need to start small businesses and create one or two jobs," said Shongwe "That's when our economic growth will stimulate job creation."

The website can be found at www.mpumalanga.gov.za/dedp.