SA News

South Africa scoops yet another award for outstanding performance

WED, 12 NOV 2014 09:05

The work of investment promotion agencies from around the world was recognized by four awards given for outstanding performance in attracting foreign direct investment projects that support sustainable development.

South Africa’s investment reputation has further been enhanced and acknowledged by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) through the recognition of achievements made in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). During the grand opening of the UNCTAD World Investment Forum currently held at Geneva, 31 projects from 29 agencies were shortlisted for awards in which South Africa received an award for outstanding performance in attracting FDI that supports sustainable development.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies says the department through Trade and Investment South Africa (TISA) nominated Unilever’s Indonsa which is based KwaZulu-Natal, for the award. Indonsa, meaning "morning star" in isiZulu, is one of the projects assisted by TISA, a division of the dti. It is the state-of-the-art dry foods production plant outside Durban. The project produces products sold under the Aromat, Knorr, Knorrox, Rajah and Robertson's brands and is a global first for the group (Unilever) in terms of advancing its focus on advanced sustainable green technology.

Unilever’s chairperson, Marijn van Tiggelen says the advanced technology in operation at Indonsa sets new global standards in responsible and sustainable dry food production.

"This factory forms part of a multi-year, multi-billion investment plan by Unilever South Africa to cater for our growth. The investment also forms part of the firm's sustainable living plan, which aims to build the business while cutting down on its overall environmental footprint,” said van Tiggelen.

Minister Davies congratulated the dti team for winning this prestigious award and noted that TISA had become a globally recognised and leading investment promotion agency. According to Minister Davies, TISA is continuously improving its investment promotion, facilitation and aftercare services.  Davies also noted that South Africa had received major investment projects from multinationals and developed a pipeline of R60.5 billion for the financial year 2013/14. Year to date TISA’s investment pipeline is at R27.8 billion.

This year's Investment Promotion Awards for excellence in promoting foreign direct investment for sustainable development come at a critical juncture as United Nations member states prepare to adopt a set of sustainable development goals (SDGs) for the period up to 2030.