President Cyril Ramaphosa says the new locally manufactured Isuzu D-Max bakkie is a welcome contribution to government\u2019s efforts to significantly expand local production, as it works to rebuild the country\u2019s economy and create jobs.<\/p>\n
President Ramaphosa made the remarks at the launch of Isuzu D-Max bakkie held in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, on Thursday.<\/p>\n
The launch signifies the realisation of an investment commitment by Japan\u2019s Isuzu Motors Limited, which forms part of the investment drive set in motion by the President in 2018.<\/p>\n
The plant will secure over 1 000 jobs and indirectly employ 24 000 people, contributing to community upliftment.<\/p>\n
President Ramaphosa said the Isuzu bakkie is an iconic vehicle in South Africa and its brand has long been associated with quality and reliability.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe fact that this bakkie is being manufactured in South Africa is more than a matter of pride. It is a welcome contribution to our efforts to significantly expand local production as we work to rebuild our economy and create jobs.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe automotive industry is one of our economy\u2019s most important sectors. It is a significant source of employment and small business development in the Eastern Cape, particularly in Gqeberha,\u201d the President said.<\/p>\n
The President also commended Isuzu Motors for supporting the localisation objectives contained in the Automotive Production Development Programme. It is anticipated that a local content value of approximately R2.8 billion will be generated through the lifecycle of this programme.<\/p>\n
\u201cIsuzu\u2019s manufacturing plant here in Gqeberha, while best known for producing world-class vehicles, also creates jobs and opportunities for many South Africans, and enables local businesses across the value chain to realise their potential.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis investment, together with the approximately R332 billion in investment pledges made at the 4th South Africa Investment Conference held last month, will do much to support South Africa\u2019s economic recovery,\u201d President Ramaphosa said.<\/p>\n
He said of the pledges received at the Investment Conference, seven were from the automotive sector, \u201csignalling that the industry has renewed confidence in our country\u2019s growth prospects\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor our part, we will continue to drive the critical structural reforms that are necessary to improve the business and investment climate in South Africa. We will continue to support companies like Isuzu that are investing in the country\u2019s manufacturing capabilities. We will continue to be with you, for the long run,\u201d the President said.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Source: South African Government News Agency<\/p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the new locally manufactured Isuzu D-Max bakkie is a welcome contribution to government\u2019s efforts to significantly expand local production, as it works to rebuild the country\u2019s economy and create jobs.President Ramaphosa …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n