A PLACE OF OPPORTUNITY
Amajuba District Municipality is situated within the north western corner of the KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa. The
district has abundant water, a reliable labour force, well developed transport infrastructure, first world educational, medical and community services, internationally-acclaimed tourism attractions, and an enviable lifestyle.
The region is linked to Johannesburg and the port cities of Richards Bay and Durban by road, rail and an airport with tarred runways and night landing systems.
The vibrant central business district of Newcastle contains all of the county's major banks and financial institutions, as well as modern conference facilities. Currently under construction, a new mall will offer a one-stop shopping destination that will service the entire region.
Although the ArcelorMittal steelworks and the 500 00m2 Karbochem synthetic rubber plant dominate Newcastle's industrial portfolio, a diversity of manufacturing and commercial undertakings share in the region's success. Other large operations include heavy engineering concerns, a granite tile factory, steel reinforcement, and a slagment cement factory.
The KwaZulu-Natal Clothing and Textile Cluster (KZNCTC) has established a Sector Business Support Centre in Newcastle, aimed at regenerating the area's clothing and textile industry. Amongst other manufacturers, Allwear the country's largest producer of school wear operates in the town.
The fully-serviced modern business industrial estate and other open land will accommodate any needs. A significant factor in an investor's industrial location assessment is the overall operating cost and all services are available at competitive, market- related prices.
There is potential for future growth and research has shown that Amajuba has advantages for the manufacture of:
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Aluminum-based products
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High quality leather goods
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Textiles and textile products
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Clothing
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Automotive components
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Metal products andmachinery
The economy in Amajuba was historically focused on coal mining but many collieries have closed. There are opportunities for small scale mining of coal, clays or reworking coal dumps.
The moderate climate, readily available water and high to moderate potential soils ensure the success of the agricultural sector.Agricultural activities include subsistence farming, forestry, game, cattle, sheep, wheat, soya and, maize. The district is the most important wool producing area in KwaZulu-Natal.
Agricultural opportunities identified are:
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The development of an agricultural hub which will be linked to the Dube TradePort.
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Agro-processing.
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Organic farming.
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Dairy farming focussing on the export of milk, cheese, powdered milk, yogurt and fruit juices.
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The processing of soya to create bio-diesel and soya meal.
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Vegetable tunnel farming.
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Beef: Feedlot development.
Amajuba offers significant opportunities for tourism investment, including several joint ventures with surrounding districts. The region is close to the majestic Drakensberg mountains and is an integral part of the internationally renowned Battlefields Route, which focuses on the battles that have sculptured the history of South Africa.
The Amajuba Birding Meander with its grassveld, bushveld and mountain habitats, offers an associated range of species.
