This article was written by Andile April, Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager COEGA.
A significant step towards industrial cooperation was taken on Tuesday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) and the Industrial Zones Programme at the Industrial Development Corporation Headquarters, in Sandton.
An MoU was signed by EIPA Chief Executive Officer, Sibani Mngomezulu, and the Executive Director of the Industrial Zones Programme, Lionel October.
The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) was represented by Chuma Mbande, Executive Manager: Business Development External Programmes, Zakhele Kunene, Programme Director: Tshwane Automotive SEZ, and Kelly Byrne, Director: Mega Projects.
The agreement establishes a strategic partnership focused on advancing Special Economic Zone (SEZ)-based cross-border value chain collaboration, the development of industrial parks, and the strengthening of trade facilitation corridors between South Africa and Eswatini.
October said the MoU represents a practical step towards deepening regional industrial cooperation.
“This partnership marks an important milestone in translating regional industrial policy into action. By strengthening cross border value chains and industrial ecosystems, we are creating the conditions for inclusive industrial growth and regional competitiveness in line with AfCFTA ambitions,” said October.
This collaboration is aligned with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and broader regional industrialisation and trade integration strategies aimed at enhancing competitiveness, investment attraction, and sustainable economic growth across the region.
Sibani Mngomezulu, EIPA Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration between South Africa and Eswatini.
“The agreement reflects our shared commitment to industrial development, trade facilitation, and investment promotion. By working with experienced partners, we can unlock new opportunities that benefit both economies and strengthen regional integration,” said Mngomezulu.
Coega is anticipated to play a key role as an implementing agent, leveraging its experience in SEZ development, industrial infrastructure delivery, and cross-border industrial partnerships to support the operationalisation of the initiatives outlined in the MoU.
Chuma Mbande reaffirmed Coega’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the MoU.
“Coega brings proven expertise in the planning, development, and operationalisation of industrial zones. We look forward to supporting this partnership by unlocking cross border industrial opportunities that drive investment, job creation, and sustainable economic development,” said Mbande.
Picture: Coega, IZP and EIPA delegation at the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony in Johannesburg.