By Mandla Mpangase
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has issued a strong call to young people in Mamelodi, Eersterust and surrounding communities: opportunities exist, but initiative is essential.
Speaking on Poort FM on 3 March 2026, TASEZ Stakeholder Engagement Manager Khutso Semetjane urged residents, particularly the youth, to actively pursue training and employment prospects linked to the automotive hub anchored by Ford Motor Company.
9 440 direct jobs, thousands more indirect
Semetjane detailed the measurable economic impact of the special economic zone (SEZ) since its establishment.
On the construction side alone, TASEZ has created over 6 000 jobs. Within the zone, more than 3 400 permanent jobs have been created by operational investor companies.
“When you calculate indirect employment,” he explained, “for every job inside the SEZ, roughly three more are created outside.” That includes supply chain businesses such as paint manufacturers, logistics operators and component suppliers servicing vehicle production, including the Ford Ranger and Everest lines assembled in Tshwane.
In total, the broader ecosystem linked to the SEZ supports more than 10 000 direct jobs and an estimated 40 000 indirect jobs.
However, Semetjane acknowledged current pressures in the automotive sector, including job losses linked to global market adjustments. He confirmed that TASEZ has temporarily suspended its general labour database due to reduced hiring activity, but will reopen it as Phase 2 construction begins and new investors come on stream.
70% of construction jobs reserved for locals
A key highlight of the interview was TASEZ’s commitment to local economic inclusion.
For Phase 2 construction, 70% of jobs will be allocated to residents from surrounding communities, including Mamelodi, Eersterust, and Nellmapius. The remaining 30% will be sourced externally. Similar targets apply to permanent jobs, except where highly specialised skills are unavailable locally.
“We are intentional about inclusion,” Semetjane said. “But we also have to protect the investment. Investors must have confidence in the environment.”
Training that leads to work, not just certificates
TASEZ has prioritised practical, industry-aligned training to ensure meaningful employment outcomes.
Among the interventions are:
- Construction skills training
- Forklift and TLB (tractor-loader-backhoe) operator certification
- Code 14 truck driver training
- Upholstery training linked to automotive applications
- First aid and safety qualifications
Semetjane stressed that some programmes require minimum qualifications, often Grade 10, while others are open to participants without formal schooling.
Importantly, he said, training is designed with an “exit plan” to connect graduates to real opportunities. In one recent example, a TLB (tractor, loader, backhoe) trainee secured employment within a month of completing training.
The SEZ also works closely with TVET (technical and vocational education and training) colleges, including Tshwane North TVET College, from which 16 of the 23 current interns and graduates placed at TASEZ originate. A formal memorandum of understanding is being finalised.
In addition, the TASEZ Training Academy bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry readiness, addressing investor concerns that some graduates lack practical competence.
Youth readiness a growing concern
While emphasising opportunity, Semetjane raised concerns about youth preparedness. He cited instances where job applicants:
- Failed to answer calls for interviews
- Arrived dressed inappropriately
- Lacked basic knowledge about TASEZ or its mandate
“There is a serious need for non-financial intervention,” he said. “We must engage youth about professionalism, research, digital literacy and self-development.”
He encouraged matriculants to prioritise mathematics and science if they wish to enter the automotive or engineering sectors, noting that these subjects significantly improve competitiveness.
TASEZ has appointed nine community liaison officers (CLOs), one for each ward in its catchment area, to serve as the first point of contact for employment and training enquiries.
Semetjane urged community members to:
- Visit the TASEZ website
- Engage with local CLOs
- Attend career expos
- Research opportunities before applying
CSI and community projects
On corporate social investment, Semetjane said TASEZ facilitates partnerships between investors and local non-governmental organisations. However, he cautioned that due diligence is essential after instances of misrepresentation by some organisations.
Community groups are encouraged to submit proposals well in advance, as investor approvals can take months.
In closing, Semetjane made a heartfelt appeal to beneficiaries of SEZ opportunities.
“When people succeed, they disappear,” he said. “We need those success stories to come back and inspire others. It builds confidence that this project is real.”
As Phase 2 expansion begins, TASEZ leadership is positioning the zone not merely as an industrial hub but as a catalyst for inclusive economic transformation.
“More investment means more jobs,” Semetjane concluded. “But we must act responsibly and seize the opportunity when it comes.”