Chinese Consul General Visits Maluti-A-Phofung to Strengthen Ties and Unlock Development Potential
The Consul General of China in Johannesburg, Mr. Pan Qingjiang, paid a two-day visit to Maluti-A-Phofung (MAP) municipality in the Free State from May 20 to 21. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening economic and cultural ties between China and the local municipality.
Welcomed by the Executive Mayor, Cllr. Malekula Melato, the visit focused on promoting local development through investment and collaboration. “Today’s visit by the Honourable Consul General was aimed at strengthening our relationship, which will likely result in much-needed development within the municipality,” said Mayor Melato.
She emphasized the municipality’s readiness to create an enabling environment for foreign investment, noting that partnerships such as this could help resolve critical infrastructure challenges, particularly in electricity and water supply. “This interaction with the Chinese is just the beginning. It will ensure reliable basic services that will attract job opportunities for our youth. Improved roads and infrastructure will also help give our young people international exposure through tourism,” she added.
The mayor further acknowledged the support from the Free State provincial government, especially the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA), in championing investment vehicles like the Maluti-A-Phofung Special Economic Zone (MAPSEZ). “It is through the SEZ that we can realize our Local Economic Development strategies,” she said.
Mr. Pan, who was visiting the municipality for the third time, said this visit gave him a deeper understanding of the region’s potential. “The Executive Mayor has asked me to stay overnight so that I can see more of what this place has to offer. I commit to sharing this invaluable information with Chinese investors, especially regarding opportunities in the SEZ,” he said.
The visit’s itinerary included key sites such as the Fika Patso and Sterkfontein Dams, industrial areas, and engagements with both political and traditional leadership. Mr. Pan was also joined by local stakeholders for several community outreach events.
In a show of goodwill, the Chinese Consulate donated school shoes and educational toys to Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and Thiboloha Special School. On the second day, Mr. Pan visited Tshiya District Teacher Development Centre, where he interacted with principals, school governing bodies, and parents. Later, he attended a community engagement at the Bluegumbosch Multipurpose Hall, connecting with traditional leaders and cultural exhibitors.
“We are here at Thiboloha to deliver two things—love and toys. Working together, we can help stimulate the minds of our children,” said Mayor Melato. Mr. Pan echoed these sentiments, saying, “Collaboration deepens our relationship and paves the way for a brighter future. Let’s join hands to make Maluti-A-Phofung a better place.”
He closed with a Sesotho proverb: “Botjha ke palesa” — youth are like flowers, symbolizing the promise of growth through unity and partnership.
