City of uMhlathuze Local Economic Development unit

Yesterday the City of uMhlathuze Local Economic Development unit in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA). Hosted a workshop to empower local entrepreneurs. The event aimed to provide community members with essential tools for business growth and sustainability, focusing on access to funding, finance, brand marketing, and sales.

Stakeholders that supported the workshop include:

- Standard Bank: Providing financial support and expertise to local businesses

- Ziphakamise Co-operative Bank: Offering financial services and solutions for entrepreneurs

- Africa Trade and Investment KZN: Facilitating trade and investment opportunities for local businesses

This initiative aligns with the City of uMhlathuze vision to promote economic development, alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The workshop demonstrated the City's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for local businesses to thrive.

The City of uMhlathuze's economic development strategy prioritizes promoting socio-economic development, creating jobs, and stimulating growth in key sectors such as

- Industrial development: Focusing on competitiveness and value-adding opportunities

- Tourism: Leveraging the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage

- Commercial development: Supporting emerging businesses and SMMEs

By providing access to funding, finance, and business skills training, the workshop aimed to empower local entrepreneurs and to expose them to funding and business support opportunities that are available for them both within government and in the private sector.