By 
Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) is repositioning itself as an attractive investment destination in the Free State Province and has hosted two inaugural indabas as a lead up to the Investment Summit this week.
As part of its strategic move to grow its economy and attract investors into the City, the metro hosted a two days Infrastructure Indaba in Bloemfontein from 13 to 14 February 2025; where expects in the field gathered under one roof to advice the municipality on how to improve and maintain its infrastructure.
During his address, the number one citizen of Mangaung Metro, the Executive Mayor Cllr Gregory Nthatisi alluded to the fact that infrastructure is key in attracting investors and stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life of its people.
The metro is faced with challenges of aging infrastructure, all be it from water pipes and roads, expects including engineers from the South African Institute of Civil Engineers (SAICE) gave their expect advice on how to deal with such challenges and the opportunities available.
The municipality’s power utility CENTLEC also shed light in the energy sector on how best they can improve and position the municipality in a best position to attract investors.
Mangaung Metro had to look into the mirror and reflect on itself, acknowledge the existing challenges in the City and come up with lasting solutions. The metro has many investment opportunities, placed in the centre of the country with a number of national roads passing through it, it has the potential of becoming an economic hub of the province.
Nthatisi said service delivery is amongst the things that can attract business and investors alike into the metro.
“Most pressing are the basic needs of our communities, which we are committed to addressing. We are eager to explore sustainable solutions to upgrade our roads, mitigate storm-water issues, and strengthen our infrastructure. Your expertise and guidance are crucial in helping us achieve these goals and create a thriving, liveable City for all,” said the Executive Mayor Cllr. Gregory Nthatisi.
