The NSEZ delegation was led by Chief Executive Officer Dr Nontobeko Mahlalela and General Manager: Investment Promotion and Business Development Mr Mzwakhe Lubisi. UMP was represented by Dr Naledi Nthite, Director: Research Management, supported by Professor Ndiko Ludidi, Faculty Dean; Professor Lembe Magwaza, Research Chair; and a multidisciplinary team of researchers.
Building on the objectives of the MoU, stakeholders outlined a collaborative roadmap focused on investment promotion, research, training, and agricultural development.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to identify practical interventions that will integrate academic expertise with industry and community-based initiatives to unlock economic opportunities across the region.
A key focus of the discussions was the development of a sustainable agricultural value chain to support agro-processing industries within the NSEZ. By working closely with local communities and traditional authorities, the initiative aims to strengthen local production systems, ensure reliable access to raw materials, and stimulate inclusive growth and job creation.
The discussions further highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships between academia, industry, and communities to address regional development challenges. Through collaborative research, innovation, and skills development initiatives, the partnership aims to develop practical solutions that support economic growth while enhancing local capacity and participation.
UMP will play a key role in providing research support, technical expertise, and skills development. Areas of collaboration include soil analysis, crop suitability studies, innovation support, and training programmes designed to improve productivity and meet industry needs.
Both parties emphasised the importance of practical, results-oriented collaboration, with initial pilot projects already underway in partnership with local communities. The engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to leveraging research, innovation, and skills development to contribute to sustainable economic growth and socio-economic development in Mpumalanga.
The partnership marks an important step towards transforming the region’s economic landscape through collaboration, impactful research, innovation, and sustainable development.
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