The recent CSIR talks focused on working with Eskom and the Middelburg Chamber of Commerce to decarbonise the steel industry and create a steel cluster in Mpumalanga. Discussions centred on reducing carbon emissions and exploring development opportunities for the sector. 

Key questions were: What support is required for the Mpumalanga Stainless Initiative to realise its full potential? How can downstream beneficiation in the steel and metals sector be promoted and how can the steel sector be aligned with the objectives of the South African Steel and Metals Masterplan? 

The Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDET) is committed to building internal capacity to conduct feasibility studies, develop business plans for incubators and train companies as part of the Mpumalanga Stainless Initiative (MSI). DEDET will also identify and package new business incubation opportunities for the MSI, particularly those arising from the master plans. 

New strategies and a business case for the recovery phase will be developed. They will also support the development of the mining and metals technology park in eMalahleni and Middelburg. 

Members interested in participating in these discussions can contact Anna-Marth Ott at ceo@middelburgchamber.com.