Stakeholders in the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) have been focused on revitalizing eThekwini and improving its status as an investment and tourism destination. Since its formation in April 2024, the Working Group has seen important progress in service delivery, business confidence, and tackling infrastructure and socio-economic issues. Business confidence rose significantly, from 38. 42% in the first quarter of 2024 to 63. 01% by the third quarter.
The PeWG was created by President Cyril Ramaphosa to increase support from national and provincial governments in rebuilding the municipality. It includes members from various government levels, as well as representatives from the private sector and labor. During a recent visit to the city, acting Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa observed improvements in city cleanliness and law enforcement visibility.
Mnukwa visited the newly opened Durban Beach Café, expressing the government’s collaboration with the private sector to promote eThekwini as a tourist-friendly area, which is key for local job creation and economic growth. She highlighted the renewed lease for Southern Sun Hotel Group, which will fund the redevelopment of the Elangeni and Maharani hotels, enhancing the beachfront’s appeal for tourism. This redevelopment involves approximately R1 billion in investments for several properties owned by Southern Sun, along with R5 million allocated for maintaining the historically significant Sunken Gardens park.
The efforts also include appointing a developer for the long-term leasing and redevelopment of the Joe Cool’s building to improve the beachfront’s appearance. To address crime, which deters tourists and investors, the Metro Police are collaborating with all law enforcement agencies to maintain a strong presence in tourist areas. The procurement of 146 additional vehicles and the training of 2,699 new constables aim to strengthen crime prevention.
Operation Shanela has been launched, implementing measures like stop-and-search actions, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, and inspections at liquor outlets to enhance public safety. During her visit, Mnukwa also saw the Durban Textile and Leather Incubator (DTLI), previously an abandoned state building that has been renovated to support small businesses. The incubator provides access to high-end sewing machines for entrepreneurs and has facilitated participation in business fairs to connect them with markets.
One successful venture, Eagle Eye, won an award and is selling products at a major store, with some entrepreneurs exporting their clothing internationally. The DTLI is a partnership between the Small Enterprise Development Agency and eThekwini Municipality, supporting small businesses in the clothing, textile, footwear, and leather sectors. It includes a comprehensive support program for startups and collaborates with local universities to enhance education and training for entrepreneurs.
In partnership with the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA, the incubator has also conducted workshops on entrepreneurship to empower small businesses. Currently, 54 small businesses are enrolled in the incubator, which provides essential services like technology access, market opportunities, funding assistance, and legal compliance support.
About the Author
