By Kopano Dibakwane
Finance MEC, Bonakele Majuba, recently led a delegation from Mpumalanga during a visit to a solar energy project on Pediatorkope Island in Ghana, alongside 45 other government leaders, public servants, and academics from Kenya and Ghana.
The visit reportedly marked the end of the first module on Economic Inclusivity organised by the three participating states, focused on fostering regional trade, digital technology, governance and energy.
According to Mpumalanga Provincial Government, the installation of 156 solar panels at the facility, with the support of the World Bank in 2017, provides electricity to households, and has transformed the lives of residents whose survival is linked to fishing.
The project is also credited for promoting the construction of health and education facilities, attracting professionals too provide essential services on Pediatorkope Island.
“ The visit to the solar energy facility is key to Mpumalanga’s exploration of the energy mix, to meet the high demand. The participants engaged in various activities of the first module, in pursuit of economic inclusivity,” said the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.
The last two modules of the Economic Inclusivity Program will reportedly take place in South Africa and Kenya, respectively, before the end of October 2025.
The Economic Inclusivity Program is viewed as an important initiative geared towards sustainable development, economic growth, as well exploring innovative solutions to meet energy needs.
The Mpumalanga delegation included, the HOD (Head of Department) at DEDT (Department of Economic Development and Tourism), Immy Serakalala, amongst others.
