Address by the mayor of KwaDukuza, Cllr. Lindile Nhaca at the occasion of the Handover Ceremony of tools of trade to local SMME’s and the announcement of driver’s licenses beneficiaries at Stanger High School Sports Ground on 28 November 2023
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Programme Director, Cllr. S. Cele and members of the Portfolio Committee responsible for Economic Development;
Invited guests;
Members of the public
Members of media;
Event organisers;
Allow me to take this opportunity to express my congratulations to all beneficiaries who will be recognised today, through the mayoral start-up and the driver’s license programmes.
I extend my greetings to all stakeholders who have been with us throughout the Entrepreneurship Month Experience which was launch earlier this month – your support and commitment to boost our local economy and business community is highly appreciated.
KwaDukuza dedicated the month of November to honour local entrepreneurship and acknowledge the significant contribution of small businesses in our economy. The creation of wealth stems from the growth and success of entrepreneurs. In 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic, we organized a similar event called Small Business Week. This year marks the 8th edition of the programme, which has been renamed and is generating much excitement.
As the Council, we have championed the collaboration between the private and public sectors as the primary driving force behind our aspirations to get local smme’s ahead. It therefore brings me great joy to declare that in this year's programme, we successfully enlisted several partners who are executing a variety of endeavours with the objective of boosting both budding and well-established enterprises.
In this regard, I extend my heartfelt greeting to all government entities, private sector entities, and our esteemed partners who are graciously providing strategic leadership, tangible assets and monetary aid for our diverse initiatives.
We offer our gratitude to all private stakeholders and state organs for their support in making this initiative possible.
We are confident that this annual programme will contribute towards revitalizing our economy especially as we recognise beneficiaries of the mayoral LED start-up programme with an astounding amount of R1,5 million.
Programme Director, in my statement at the occasion of the media launch of the Entrepreneur month, I did point out the context at which our historic injustices have continued to instability of the economy, “The government of the African National Congress is propelled by multiple socio-economic challenges which require our collective intervention in a society that is largely characterised by inequalities, poverty and joblessness. One of the mandates of the current government is to cushioning its people towards economic opportunities in ways that are inclusive and free from corruption".
We attribute the successes of the current government of the people to the countless men and women who devoted their lives to realise a more South Africa which upholds the ideals of democracy.
True to form, governments stance in addressing the socio-economic imbalances of the past has been sacrosanct.
Economic downturns
Ladies and gentlemen, our efforts for economic development have been strongly undermined by major events and disasters that have a direct impact on the economic life of small businesses of which load shedding has been a key factor.
The amount of energy and resources for the economic recovery post covid-19, social unrests, and the 2022 floods has largely been characterised by social relief of distress programmes which have enables local businesses to be active participants in the economic life once again.
International conflict and manipulation of the Rand
International conflicts have largely impacted the strength of the local economy which has led to heightened standard of living coupled with allegations of the manipulation of the Rand which is another strategic implication that requires an investigation. The survival of small businesses has been one of biggest challenge amidst such dynamics.
The economic stains have not only effected small business but have become a major threat to food security, with the majority of our people at the receiving end.
It is then our responsibility to build favourable conditions that allow businesses to generate long-lasting employment opportunities, wealth, and inclusivity.
Inclusive economy
Our vision for an inclusive economy is therefore being realised through the partnership and programmes that we have agreed to rollout as social partners. This is the legacy that we ought to build, this is the legacy that will surely empower the next generation of business leaders.
I singularly wish to record my gratitude to the MEC for economic development in the province, Mr. Sboniso Duma for his responsiveness and support.
Sithi kuncono, your leadership in the province continues to inspire hope for a better economic future for our people.
The mayoral LED start-up programme is part of the provinces economic recovery intervention under the auspices of the Municipal Employment Initiative (MEI).
I am happy that most beneficiaries are business from semi-urban areas and that they are youth, women and those living with disabilities.
Ladies and gentlemen, our vision for a better future for our people is boundless and this it the right time to have a conversation about wealth creation and to take the necessary steps at advancing such action.
Programme Director allow me to announce the beneficiaries of the mayoral start-up programme which was advertised on local media and saw a good response from local business community.
Entrepreneurship Month Programme
Before I make this announcement, I wish to point out that we have joined hands with the private sector in pursuit of a common goal of empowering our local people by enhancing capacity and facilitating the exchange of information for inclusive economic growth.
The Entrepreneurship Month Programme has received a resounding success owing to the multiple business empowerment sessions held over the past two weeks – this has not only brought hope to our budding entrepreneurs but a promise of a better future ahead – a future to be characterised by decent jobs, business opportunities and a workable plan to redress historic economic injustices.
Economic growth
Our key goal of alleviating poverty, reducing unemployment, and addressing inequalities remains at the centre of our priority.
As the government of the people we are in agreement with the private sector that the empowerment of small to medium-sized businesses is the key for economic growth and ultimate prosperity of society.
This is founded on the research that was conducted by the Entrepreneurs' Organisation South Africa chapter which revealed that small business owners in South Africa have no shortage of entrepreneurial spirit and are able to build multiple businesses without help, but their biggest challenge has been a lack of access to funding and the impact of ongoing load shedding.
Population growth
The annual population growth of 3.4% which has been recorded by Statistics South Africa during the 2022 Census showed that KwaDukuza has a population of 324,000 by 2022 on contrast to approximately 231,000 in 2011. The increase in growth indicates a higher need for municipal services, employment opportunities, and a positive indication for expanding business markets in the field of entrepreneurship. As a result, our programs for entrepreneurship development are specifically designed to address the obstacles encountered by secondary cities such as KwaDukuza.
Over time, we have implemented various strategies to ensure that the local communities can enjoy the advantages of flourishing sectors in our economy. We consistently work together with developers and investors to generate opportunities for subcontractors. We are constantly searching for solutions to assist local businesses to enter industries and new markets that have the potential to establish more sustainable enterprises.
Local Contractors Development Programme
The KwaDukuza council has introduced the Local Contractors Development Programme as a means of supporting local contractors and enabling them to play a role in the reconstruction of infrastructure that was damaged during the floods of 2022. The programme aims to provide guidance and resources to these contractors in order to facilitate their growth and development.
Deeds of Cessation Agreement
The Local Contractors Development Programme is being enhanced by the implementation of the Deeds of Cessation Agreement. This agreement, which has recently been adopted, aims to provide financial support to local contractors upon their official appointment by the municipality. The tripartite agreement involves the supplier, contractor, and KwaDukuza, and is designed to address the cashflow challenges faced by historically disadvantaged individuals. By doing so, suppliers will have the ability to carry out projects without being restricted by budget limitations, ensuring successful delivery.
Ongoing endeavours revolve around discovering methods to support local enterprises in venturing into sectors that can enhance sustainability. KwaDukuza Municipality stands out as one of the rare municipalities in the province that have taken action to address the existing obstacles faced by small and medium-sized businesses.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce to you, the beneficiaries of the 2023 mayoral start-up programme and to suggest that “kuncono”, it is better to have a government that delivers on the needs of its people.
“Kuncono”, to be a captain of a ship which at its heart - offers an aggressive programme of fighting corruption.
“Kuncono”, our people must live to realise a brighter future ahead – using state organs and the role of the private sector as vehicles of enabling such advancements.
Announcement of beneficiaries
Programme Director allow me to congratulate thirty (30) SMME’s who are critical to the life of the local economy.
1. Kungcono - our local people are being empowered with the necessary equipment to enable the growth of their businesses. In the stream of Agriculture, we are giving ZN1 POULTRY FARM of Ward 09, Chicken Hen Cage and Eggs worth R49 800. UMCEBO WAMANGUNI will also receive Chicken Storage and Eggs worth R44 000, ISIQALO FARMING ENTERPRISE will also receive Gestation House Equipment worth R 50 000 and PUNISHE CONSTRUCTION of Ward 12 is to receive Concrete mixer worth R49 000.
2. In the creative sector, BLACKZIN PROJECTS of Ward 05 received Entertainment stage lights worth R50 000, MAPOYI PROJECTS of Ward 14 will receive R50 000 worth Film marking equipment, FISOMENT 1 TRADING (PTY) LTD of Ward 08 are to receive a storage container worth R47 380.
3. In the manufacturing sector, the following smme’s will benefit: HAKA MANUFACTURING of ward 23 will receive steel plates worth R49 000, IMVELO SKIN CARE will receive R50 000 for a Storage Container, DEMOLISH GROUP received R47 600 for Liquid mixer machines. MAGAYE BRICKS & BLOCKS of ward 11 is to receive Blocks making machines worth R40 300.
4. TNS BUSINESS ENTERPRISES of Ward 10 – specialising in Upholstery & Leather Equipment received R50 000 worth of equipment, UMPINI NATIONAL PROJECTS of Ward 06 received Cleaning Equipment worth R48 000.
5. Laddies and gentlemen, we are changing the entrepreneurship dynamics to work in the favour of our smme’s. In the construction and maintenance sector, SINOMBUYAZI COMMUNICATION of ward 20 is receiving a Generator to mitigate the impact of load shedding. This generator is worth an amount of R50 000. OWETHU LOMSEBENZI TRADING of ward 12 will be receiving Scaffolding material worth R49 000. INSIKA YESIZWE HOLDINGS of Ward 18 is to receive R50 000 worth of Construction machines, MOSISILI HLONGWANE CLOTHING of Ward 05 is to receive Construction Cutters worth R43 000, SIKHONA NGENKOSI TRADING of Ward 26 received R45 900 worth of Grass Cutters.
6. In Food/ Hospitality sector, ENZOKWAKHE of Ward 24 will receive Catering equipment worth R46 200, THE FISH GURU of Ward 18 will receive a Modified Container worth R44 650, FIRST WALK INVESTMENTS of ward 19 is to receive Jes Gel Battery equipment worth R43 000, IMFIHLO YEBHODWE of ward 29 is to receive Food and Hospitality equipment worth R32 600 and INJONGO YAMA TRADING of ward 28 will receive Catering equipment worth R49 000.
7. In the services sector, DTT BLUSH BEAUTY BAR of Ward 12 are to receive Salon equipment for nails and hair worth R49 000, AMOZIE TRADING of Ward 18 is to receive Mobile car wash machines worth R48 000.
8. In clothing and textile, NOLANGA EXQUISITE DZINGS of Ward 24 received Sewing machines worth R50 000, ASIMTHANDE MIYA of Ward 24 received R48 000, SONWABO MULTI TRADING of Ward 01 received Sewing machines worth R30 250.
9. In the automotive industry, AMAJALI PANEL BEATERS of Ward 01 will receive Panel beating Equipment worth R48 000. GCINIMVELO RECYCLING of ward 14 is to receive Recycling Equipment worth R50 000. PRIMARY CO-OPERATIVE of ward 01 will receive Agricultural equipment worth R50 000.
Exercise financial discipline
Lemali ihlose ukuthuthukisa amabhisinisi abantu bakithi, siyocela nje ukuthi lokhu esithi sininika khona nikusebenzise ngokukhulu ukucophelela – niyigade futhi niwanakekele amathululuzi okusebenza.
Programme Director, I am happy that these are first time beneficiaries – as they have never received support in the last five years through other Government or Municipality SMMEs/Cooperative or Informal Traders relief measures including KZN Youth Fund Grant, Operation Vula, KDM LED Start-Up, DTI/SEDA/SEFA/IDC Relief schemes and Coca Cola Bizniz in Box.
The Driver’s License programme that will be announced today seeks to empower those who are unable to afford to pay for their licenses. It is for those who sought for employment opportunities where drivers licenses are a key requirement, it is meant for those who require driving expertise and governments approval to conduct their own businesses and that of others.
True to form, the present administration remains dedicated to boosting the socio-economic conditions whilst acknowledging the historical effects of colonialism, segregation, and the marginalisation experienced by the majority of our population in previous times.
KwaDukuza Municipality continues to be the most rapidly expanding secondary city, with its growth driven by property development, services, tourism, and manufacturing sectors. These sectors serve as the main foundations for its progress.
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a shared vision is to realize the prosperity of our people, with a mission to eradicate the prevalence of poverty, criminality, and under-development in our communities.
I take this opportunity to once again congratulate all beneficiaries and extend my appreciation to all stakeholders which includes organs of state, banks, regulators and private institutions.
Our dream of bridging the gap between those who have been ignored in the past and of repositioning potential and emerging entrepreneurs to economic opportunities is at the heart of our struggle. I will always say, your struggle is our struggle, with the shared vision, we have the potential to do more with the little that we have.
I wish you all the best! Thank you!
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