The KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference 2026 exceeded the province's expectations, securing nearly R30 billion more in investment than planned. At the event, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), investors from several companies made a collective commitment of R124.5 billion, surpassing the province's target of R95 billion.
Attendees at the conference included Premier Thamsanga Ntuli, as well as Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Rev Musa Zondi, Etkutwini Municipality Mayor Cllr Cyril Xaba, and industry leaders.
Premier Ntuli stated that the provincial government would ensure these commitments were distributed across all districts by organizing conferences throughout the province. He addressed industry leaders with the call: 'A province that develops only in one place is at risk. Ladies and gentlemen, please invest in the province because KwaZulu-Natal is open for business.'
Tau, Ntuli, and TIKZN Council Chairperson Musavenkosi Mayenyi presented a brochure created to engage investors, manufacturers, and financiers in a significant partnership. This catalogue showcased a diverse range of investment opportunities within the province.
During the presentation of the KwaZulu-Natal Investment Brochure for 2026–2028 to the audience, Parks Tau urged all interested stakeholders to consider these opportunities and collaborate with TIKZN as a partner in finding suitable projects that promise mutual benefit. He emphasized that this initiative is a targeted effort to bring investment opportunities closer to the market, allowing potential partners to interact directly with project owners.
Tau noted that the presented projects not only reflect the current state of KwaZulu-Natal but also represent bold indicators of future aspirations.
In total, 47 companies and organizations made investment commitments, with Senzo Esihle Rail contributing the largest amount at R34.104 billion. Other major commitments came from Afchlor (Pty) Ltd (R1.75 billion), AJ Property Holdings (Pty) Ltd (R1.072 billion), Azania MediaWorks (Pty) Ltd (R6.5 billion), Bidvest Freight (R2.015 billion), and Cedar Falls Properties 205 (Pty) Ltd (R4.5 billion).