Brief
Ramaphosa unveils R120bn plan to revive Free State industry
The three‑programme initiative targets renewable energy, electric‑vehicle production and apple‑juice processing, aiming to create thousands of jobs.
By Felo News Desk · Published
President Cyril Ramaphosa launched a R120bn investment drive for the Free State on 9 October 2026 at the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Centre in QwaQwa, according to Bizcommunity.
What happened
The Free State Catalytic Investment and Industrialisation Programme bundles three flagship projects: the YJC renewable‑energy project (about R100bn), the Joylong Automotive Manufacturing project (about R5.5bn) and the Walk of Life Apple Juice Concentrate Plant (about R330m). The renewable‑energy project is projected to generate roughly 6,500 jobs. Joylong aims to employ 1,500 people directly over five years and produce up to 8,000 electric vehicles a year. The apple‑juice plant is expected to create 100 permanent jobs and about 600 seasonal positions.
What the reports add
Bizcommunity notes that the programme is intended to strengthen local value chains, attract further private‑sector capital and position the province as a growth engine for South Africa. It also highlights that the Maluti‑a‑Phofung Special Economic Zone, central to the plan, has space for 65 factories, of which 58% are currently occupied.
What was said
Ramaphosa told the audience, “The proposed YJC renewable energy project represents an investment of approximately R100bn and has the potential to create 6,500 jobs.” He added, “These projects demonstrate the type of economic activity we need to build investment that creates productive capacity, develops local value chains, strengthens exports and expands employment.” He also stressed the need for reliable electricity, water, roads and efficient approvals to attract investors.
How it came about
The announcement follows a broader Free State Growth and Development Strategy that seeks to reverse a decline in manufacturing that began in the early 2000s, when deteriorating municipal services prompted companies to relocate. Ramaphosa highlighted the province’s central location, transport links and agricultural base as assets for expanding agro‑processing and the green economy.
Key facts
- President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a R120bn investment drive for the Free State on 9 October 2026. (bizcommunity.com)
- The YJC renewable‑energy project is valued at about R100bn and is expected to create 6,500 jobs. (bizcommunity.com)
- Joylong Automotive Manufacturing will cost roughly R5.5bn, create 1,500 direct jobs and produce up to 8,000 EVs annually. (bizcommunity.com)
- Walk of Life Apple Juice Concentrate Plant involves about R330m investment, creating 100 permanent and 600 seasonal jobs. (bizcommunity.com)
- The Maluti‑a‑Phofung Special Economic Zone has capacity for 65 factories, with 58% currently occupied. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Free State targets industrial revival with R120bn investment drive”
