The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government today hosted the first day of the KZN Investment Conference.

The aim of the conference is to promote KZN as the preferred investment destination by showcasing its unique selling points, including its natural resources, infrastructure, and strategic location, positioning it as a gateway to the rest of Africa.

A major highlight of the conference are the investment pledges made by several companies, demonstrating investors' confidence in the province.

Held since 2007, this provincial conference takes place as a lead-up to the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), expected to take place early next year.

The KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference, facilitated by the EDTEA entity Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal, has opened with political leadership providing insights into the province's economic growth plans and initiatives.

The event, themed "Unlocking KZN's Economic Potential: Driving Trade and Investment to Transform the Province's Future," demonstrated the province's potential as a prime investment destination.

On the first day, 16 companies committed to investing a collective R75.8 billion in the province. Additionally, South African company Zero Carbon Charge pledged R9.4 billion, driving KZN's sustainable transportation and clean energy initiatives.

The conference showcased the province's unique value proposition, highlighting its diversity and sophistication. Investors pledged support across various sectors, including infrastructure development, which is critical for economic growth.