ETHEKWINI is spearheading efforts to strengthen South Africa’s energy security, with City Manager Musa Mbhele and Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Phumzile Mgcina conducting an oversight visit to the former SAPREF refinery in Prospecton on 30 March.

The high-level visit signals growing alignment between national and local government to revive the currently inactive site.

Once a cornerstone of the country’s fuel production, the facility. now rebranded as the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) refinery, is being repositioned as a catalyst for industrial renewal.

Strategically located within the petrochemical value chain and near the Port of Durban’s logistics hub, the refinery is expected to play a key role in supporting regional economic activity.

“This is more than a technical inspection; it reflects strong alignment between national and local government,” said Mgcina.

“The refinery remains a critical economic asset. Its revival will help ensure that eThekwini remains globally competitive in industrial development,” Mbhele said.

The project is expected to unlock crude supply opportunities linked to BRICS partnerships, supporting more reliable and diversified energy sources while contributing to fuel price stability.

Amid ongoing global uncertainty, the initiative is aimed at strengthening South Africa’s energy resilience and reducing dependence on external shocks.

The restoration is projected to create about 12 500 construction jobs and 2 850 permanent positions, while contributing an estimated 1.8% to national GDP. A 65% local content target is also expected to support inclusive economic growth.

The visit included a comprehensive technical briefing and discussions on aligning infrastructure investment with long-term energy goals.

The refinery’s revival marks a significant step in positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a key player in South Africa’s evolving energy landscape.