Industrial company Afro-Zonke has committed to investing R2.1-billion in the establishment of a chlor-alkali plant in the Midvaal area of Gauteng.

The manufacturing facility is expected to have a production capacity of 50 000 t/y and will focus on the production of essential products such as caustic soda, chlorine, industrial hydrochloric acid, sodium hypochlorite, calcium chloride and food-grade carbon dioxide.

Afro-Zonke group chairperson Sthembiso Mkhize expressed his enthusiasm for the project.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with Gauteng’s vision and strategies to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities and combat issues of poverty and unemployment in the province. Additionally, the establishment of this plant will significantly reduce the country's dependence on caustic lye imports,” he highlights.

The project pledge, with an anticipated commissioning date in the fourth quarter of  2025 and beneficial operation in the first quarter of  2026, aims to address the challenges of unemployment and poverty by generating employment opportunities.

It is expected to create 100 permanent jobs, 1 000 contract jobs and contribute to skills development in the local community.

“However, the successful implementation of this project hinges on overcoming challenges related to the availability of power. As one of the primary input materials for the production process, the project requires a stable power supply of 15 MW. Guaranteed power supply without interruption to ensure smooth operations is of extreme importance,” emphasises Mkhize.

According to Mkhize, key stakeholders involved in this venture include Nuberg Engineering, the Gauteng Growth Development Agency, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, InvestSA and development finance institutions. Collaborative efforts between these stakeholders are expected to support the project's realisation and contribute to its success.

“As of now, Afro-Zonke is in the final stages of securing the remaining balance funding amount. The total capital requirement for the project is R2.1-billion. Afro-Zonke acknowledges the commitment and support received thus far from the market, with all products and technology partners confirmed,” says Mkhize.