BETHAL – President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday, 31 July 2026, officially launched the Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Farm, describing the R14.5 billion Seriti Green project as proof that South Africa's just energy transition is "being realised through practical action."
Joined by Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu, Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Gert Sibande District Municipality Executive Mayor Walter Mngomezulu and Seriti Group Chairman Mike Teke, the President cut the ribbon on the first phase of the facility between Bethal, Davel and Morgenzon.
Developed by Seriti Green, the project will ultimately generate 900MW from wind turbines across the province. The first 25 turbines are already feeding 155MW into the national grid.
"Mpumalanga is known as the place of the rising sun, but it has not been known for its wind. In fact, some doubted the value of building a wind farm here," Ramaphosa said.
"This project demonstrates that this is a province with many energy sources and many opportunities."
For Seriti, the launch marks a significant step in its transition from a coal-focused business to a diversified energy company. Teke told guests that Seriti had been accused of "greenwashing" when the vision was first presented to farmers and mayors on 23 March 2023.
"I stand here informing everybody that nobody is going to stand in the way of human progress," Teke said.
"We mine coal at several mines in this province. The ability to build a powerful mining company called Seriti enabled us to reach a stage where we are able to invest in renewable energy for the young boys and girls in this area."
He said the project demonstrates that South Africa's just energy transition is already taking shape.
"The just energy transition is not on paper. It is real. Seriti is not a coal miner. We are not greenwashing. We are an energy business."
Ramaphosa said the true measure of the energy transition lies in the opportunities it creates for local communities. He noted that the project has already created more than 1 000 jobs, with about half going to people living within a 10km radius of the site. More than 18 500 people have registered on the Seriti Green Skills Hub, with women accounting for more than 50% of participants.
"This project demonstrates the value of a strong focus on creating meaningful local economic participation and ensuring that surrounding communities benefit directly," the President said.
Premier Mandla Ndlovu said the project represents far more than renewable energy infrastructure. He said a wind resource study commissioned by Seriti Green found that the Bethal area has some of the strongest wind resources in the country, making the project viable.
"The people of our province understand that this project is about far more than wind turbines and infrastructure. It is about creating jobs, developing skills, attracting investment, restoring dignity to families, and opening opportunities for the next generation," Ndlovu said.
"It represents hope for young people seeking employment, empowerment for local businesses, and a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Today marks an important milestone in addressing one of South Africa's greatest challenges, unemployment."
Teke stressed the importance of community partnerships, quoting a Northern Sotho proverb about advancing together. He also announced that Seriti would continue investing in solar and battery energy projects towards Middelburg, with support from shareholders Standard Bank and Rand Merchant Bank (RMB).
The launch comes as government continues implementing electricity sector reforms. Ramaphosa announced that a task team under the National Energy Crisis Committee had completed the first phase of work towards establishing an independent Transmission System Operator.
