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Supporting the Development of an Economic Diversification Strategy for the Komati Ward 4 Region

Institution / Author:
Ntombifuthi Tshabalala
Year:
2026
Sectoral focus:
Energy, Coal
Thematic focus:
Economic diversification, Economic Diversification Strategies, Just Energy Transition, Coal
Type of analysis:
Primary research
Type of document:
Event (dialogue)
Download JUST SA TIPS Presentation Supporting the Development of an Economic Diversification Strategy for the Komati Ward 4 Region download Download
Supporting the Development of an Economic Diversification Strategy for the Komati Ward 4 Region

The presentation by Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies outlines efforts to support the development of an economic diversification strategy for the Komati Ward 4 Region following the closure of the Komati coal-fired power station. It forms part of South Africa’s Just Transition initiatives led by the Presidential Climate Commission. The presentation highlights the need for locally driven economic alternatives that can replace declining coal-related employment. It proposes a place-based development approach that builds on existing assets, promotes small enterprise development, and identifies new sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, services, and local manufacturing to support sustainable livelihoods and regional economic resilience.

The research is in progress, and the final report will be released later in 2026. Contact the researcher directly for more information: ntombi@tips.org.za.


About the presenter/researcher:

Ntombifuthi Tshabalala is an economist at TIPS, where she works on the Just SA project. Her research focuses on the economic diversification of the Mpumalanga coalfields. She also facilitates Green Economy and Just Transition capacity-building workshops for local and provincial government officials across different provinces.