In KwaZulu-Natal, the City of uMhlathuze (Richards Bay-Empangeni) is on the brink of becoming the prime city for opportunities and economic growth, set to outshine the current leading city, Durban.
This optimistic view comes from the city’s Mayor, Xolani Ngwezi, who firmly believes that with strategic actions, uMhlathuze can seize the chance to flourish.
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Mayor Ngwezi highlights the importance of nurturing small businesses and creating a conducive environment for their development, which he sees as the key to driving growth in the northern KZN city.
Speaking at a grant-in-aid equipment handover event for 252 small businesses, predominantly situated in the townships of uMhlathuze, Mayor Ngwezi emphasized the significance of small and informal businesses in contributing to overall economic progress.
Therefore, the municipality took the initiative to support and uplift these enterprises.The Mayor further commended the legitimacy and viability of these businesses, as they were already operational when identified for assistance.
Drawing inspiration from established corporate giants in South Africa that once started as small businesses, Ngwezi expressed his confidence in the potential for these enterprises to grow exponentially with proper support.
Among the sectors that received help from the municipality were agriculture, informal trading, and other small-scale industries found in the townships.
Ngwezi underscored the significance of supporting young farmers, identifying the agricultural sector as a key player in producing future billionaires. With a growing population, the demand for food remains essential, making agriculture a crucial sector to invest in.
Comparing uMhlathuze’s coalition government to others in the country, Ngwezi attributed its stability to the unwavering commitment of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the Democratic Alliance (DA), and coalition partners like the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) to serve their constituents diligently.
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Additionally, Mayor Ngwezi encouraged the youth to register and actively participate in the upcoming general elections, drawing parallels to the transformative 1994 elections.
By exercising their right to vote, the youth can contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of uMhlathuze as it emerges as the next city of opportunities and economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal.
