JOHANNESBURG - The UN Development Programme is pulling out of the Musina-Makhado Special Development Zone.
It would have seen Chinese investors contributing to the R165-billion needed for the project.
At least 20 heavy industries were planned for the zone, which could have created up to 53,000 jobs.
But, it would have also destroyed around 3,000 hectares of near-pristine natural and sacred land.
The UN was advised of reputational damage if it went ahead with the programme.
We get reaction from Makoma Lekalakala from Earthlife Africa.
UNDP pulls out of Musina-Makhado Part 2
UNDP pulls out of Musina-Makhado Part 3
UNDP pulls out of Musina-Makhado Part 4
UNDP pulls out of Musina-Makhado Part 5