JN Reporter

International youth federation partnership targets investment, skills development and job creation in key sectors

Matjhabeng Local Municipality is poised to benefit from a new international partnership aimed at unlocking economic development and attracting much-needed investment into the re gion. The collaboration is expected to open doors for infrastructure expansion, skills development and job creation, as the municipality works to reposition itself as a competitive destination for global investors. Municipal leaders say the move signals a strategic shift towards leveraging international expertise and funding to revive key sectors of the local economy, including mining, manufacturing and small business development. While full details of the agreement are still emerg ing, officials are confident it will fast-track develop ment initiatives and restore investor confidence in Matjhabeng. According to Executive Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha, the initiative follows a high-level engagement earlier this week with a delegation from the China South Af rica Youth Federation, led by its President, Luyanda Jonas. The meeting focused on fostering long-term collaboration between the Federation and the munic ipality. “Key sectors identified for potential collaboration include manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy and property development. These sectors are expect ed to play a critical role in stimulating local economic growth, creating employment opportunities and en hancing the overall socio-economic landscape of the municipality,” said Khalipha. He added that the China South Africa Youth Fed eration serves as a dynamic platform promoting co operation between South African and Chinese youth through dialogue platforms, cultural exchanges and skills development initiatives. The Federation also highlighted scholarship op portunities for deserving students, with Matjhabeng earmarked as a potential beneficiary for study pro grammes in China. “This initiative is expected to open doors for local youth to access international education and acquire critical skills that will contribute meaningfully to the development of the municipality,” Khalipha said. As part of its community outreach, the Federation, in partnership with the municipality, is also set to visit two local schools to donate personal care products in a bid to support learners and promote dignity. The engagement follows an invitation extended by the Executive Mayor to the Federation during the South Africa Investment Conference 2026 held in Sandton, led by the President of the Republic. It forms part of ongoing efforts to position Mat jhabeng as an attractive destination for both local and international investment. The Federation has further extended an official in vitation to Khalipha and his delegation to visit China — a move expected to deepen ties and unlock even greater economic opportunities for the municipality.