Nelson Mandela Bay’s Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) was named SEZ of the Year, a prestigious accolade that reaffirms its status as South Africa’s premier investment destination and a leading catalyst for economic growth, industrialisation and job creation.
The award was announced by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Honourable Parks Tau, during a gala dinner of the 2nd International SEZ Conference, held at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) on 16 July 2026.
The recognition highlights Coega’s outstanding contribution to investment attraction, infrastructure development and inclusive economic growth, particularly in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the past few years, the Coega SEZ has demonstrated remarkable resilience, recording strong growth in both new investments and investor re-investments.
This sustained confidence from local and international investors reflects the strength of Coega’s world-class infrastructure, strategic location, efficient business environment and commitment to supporting industrial development.
The increase in investments has translated into significant socio-economic benefits, including the creation of thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Coega has also continued to invest in skills development and capacity-building programmes, ensuring that communities, particularly young people, are equipped with the skills required to participate meaningfully in the economy.
In recognising the achievement, the Minister described Coega as “the No. 1 of No. 1s” among South Africa’s Special Economic Zones, underscoring its continued leadership and exceptional performance within the sector.
The MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Honourable Nonkqubela Pieters, welcomed the recognition, describing it as a significant achievement for the Eastern Cape.
The recognition of the Coega Special Economic Zone as the SEZ of the Year is a proud moment for the Eastern Cape and a strong affirmation of our province’s growing role in South Africa’s industrial and economic development.” This award reflects the exceptional work undertaken by the Coega Development Corporation in attracting investment, supporting business growth and creating sustainable employment opportunities for our people.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Coega has demonstrated remarkable resilience, securing new investments, encouraging investor re-investments and strengthening confidence in the Eastern Cape as a premier investment destination.” The Chief Executive Officer of the Coega Development Corporation, Mr. Themba Koza, said the award belongs to the many stakeholders who have contributed to Coega’s success.
“We are honoured to receive the SEZ of the Year Award, a recognition that reflects the collective efforts of our employees, investors, business partners, government stakeholders and the communities we serve.” This achievement is a testament to the confidence investors continue to place in Coega and the impact of our work in driving industrialisation, creating jobs and developing skills. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to building on our successes, attracting further investment, creating sustainable employment opportunities and positioning the Coega SEZ as a globally competitive hub for trade, manufacturing and economic development.”
The award serves as a testament to the dedication and collaboration of Coega’s employees, investors, stakeholders and strategic partners, whose collective efforts continue to advance economic development and sustainable growth in the Eastern Cape and South Africa.
As Coega celebrates this remarkable achievement, the organisation remains focused on expanding its investment pipeline, unlocking opportunities for local communities, driving skills development and supporting South Africa’s broader economic transformation agenda.
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See Also: Coega Development Corporation Scoops Top Special Economic Zone of the Year Award | Reigniting Industrialisation Through World-Class SEZs
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