Article by Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber.
Nomkhita Mona
Chief Executive Officer
The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber applauds Isuzu Motors of Japan for its announcement of a multi-billion investment in Nelson Mandela Bay, Port-Elizabeth which will go towards the next generation bakkie programme in Port-Elizabeth.
This development comes on the back of Isuzu’s take over last year of the company’s light commercial vehicle operations at its facility in the Metro of Port-Elizabeth as well as the balance of shareholding in the trucks business in Port-Elizabeth.
Even more exciting is the additional total content value of R2.8 billion which will be generated through the life cycle of the programme. As such, this is a welcomed development as it not only reaffirms the company’s commitment to expanding its operations in Port-Elizabeth but also sees the potential the city has as an investment destination of choice. But more importantly, it augurs well for Port-Elizabeth as this is a much-needed economic boost for the employment starved province.
As the Business Chamber, we are encouraged by the company’s decision to invest in the city as this shows investor confidence. The investment will secure or save the existing 1000 direct jobs at the company’s Port Elizabeth plant. This has a significant impact on the current high unemployment rate in the region.
