PRESS RELEASE

TEDA and Thinc Foundation Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Promote Trade, Investment and Public Engagement in Tshwane

For immediate release

City of Tshwane, Pretoria, 2026

The Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA) and the Thinc Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a collaborative framework to promote, support and facilitate trade and investment opportunities in the City of Tshwane through public engagements, media exposure and strategic roadshows.

The MOU brings together TEDA’s mandate to stimulate economic development and investment in Tshwane with the Thinc Foundation’s public policy, knowledge translation and stakeholder engagement capabilities. The partnership is intended to raise awareness of Tshwane’s investment opportunities among ambassadors, academics, captains of industry, media houses, business organisations and other strategic networks.

Through the agreement, the parties will work together to support increased inward investment into Tshwane, expand export opportunities for Tshwane-based products and services into Sub-Saharan African and international markets, and contribute to wealth creation and job-generating growth in the region.

Speaking on the significance of the agreement, Dr Lardo Stander, Chief Executive Officer of TEDA, said the collaboration provides a platform to strengthen Tshwane’s investment proposition and broaden the networks through which the city can attract investors, markets and development partners.

Dr Lucky Mathebula, Chairperson and Founder of the Thinc Foundation, said the MOU reflects a shared commitment to turning knowledge, networks and public engagement into practical economic opportunities for Tshwane. “This partnership allows us to use evidence, dialogue and strategic convening to support investment promotion and wider economic participation,” he said.

The MOU will operate from the date of signature and will remain in force for a period of three years, subject to periodic review by the parties to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness. Specific activities flowing from the agreement will be supported by proposals submitted to TEDA in advance.

About TEDA

The Tshwane Economic Development Agency is established to help cultivate an environment in which the City of Tshwane can grow its human capital and economy through the facilitation, implementation and management of economic development and investment initiatives.

About Thinc Foundation

The Thinc Foundation is a South African public policy research, analysis and engagement organisation dedicated to advancing the public good through evidence-informed thinking, knowledge translation, stakeholder engagement and institutional capability development.

Media Enquiries

TEDA: Mr Paseka Rakosa, Office of the Chief Executive Officer | Tel: 012 358 6517 | Email: pasekar@tshwane.gov.za

Thinc Foundation: Dr Lucky Mathebula | Tel: 082 853 3914 | Email: lucky@justthinc.co.za