The Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) is proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Casidra, a leading agency in rural development. This strategic partnership is set to enhance collaborative efforts towards Sustainable Integrated Development in rural areas, focusing on Agricultural and Economic Development within a Rural and Land Reform context.
The MoU was officially signed with Casidra, with key representatives from both ASEZ and Casidra in attendance. This landmark agreement underscores the commitment of both organisations to fostering intentional collaborations that are crucial for pinpointing impactful work being carried out in the Atlantis community.
Selwyn Willoughby, Integrated Eco Systems Executive of ASEZ, commented on the significance of the partnership: “This MoU represents a significant step forward in our mission to drive sustainable development in Atlantis. By joining forces with Casidra, we can leverage our combined expertise and resources to create meaningful and lasting impacts in the communities we serve. This collaboration will not only enhance agricultural and economic development but also drive the transition to an inclusive green economy, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable integrated development in pursuit of the Just Transition.”
David Nefdt, Chief Programme Officer of Casidra, echoed these sentiments: “Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) signed a Memorandum of Understanding in June 2024 with the purpose of jointly pursuing opportunities for economic development and social impact in especially the West Coast of the Western Cape.”
Casidra is a provincial Government Business Enterprise of the Western Cape Government with the mandate of Agriculture and Economic Development in the Rural and Land Reform context and seeks to build partnerships that facilitate local resource mobilisation and action that encourage local participation and advocacy for development efforts and foster cooperation among local role-players.
ASEZ’s mission is to develop a sustainable greentech SEZ that creates a conducive business environment for the Green economy and integrated economic growth and employment.
In achieving this mission it aims to become Africa’s leading globally competitive and export-orientated greentech manufacturing zone and a Living Lab demonstrating the highest standards of good governance, low carbon and resource efficient economic development and social inclusion.
Casidra and ASEZ will focus on the sourcing and implementation of projects in the fields of renewable energy, agro-processing, aquaculture, agricultural development, food security, local economic and business development, entrepreneurship and job creation.
This strategic collaboration between two strategic state entities have the potential of unlocking great opportunities for job creation and economic growth in the Western Cape, especially in the West Coast.
The collaboration between ASEZ and Casidra will focus on several key areas. Firstly, there’s Agricultural Development: promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting local farmers to improve productivity and profitability.
Then, Economic Development: creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth through targeted initiatives and support for small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs).
Sustainable Development: Implementing environmentally sustainable practices and projects that contribute to the long-term health and well-being of Atlantis.
This partnership is a testament to the power of strategic collaborations in driving sustainable development and creating positive change for the Atlantis community. ASEZ and Casidra are committed to working together to achieving these goals and making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people in Atlantis and surrounding areas.
