Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

 

Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

ETHEKWINI Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to support entrepreneurs with disabilities through the handover of essential business equipment recently at The Station Urban Event Space.

The handover was led by Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli in partnership with the Department of Small Business Development.

Ninety four beneficiaries from the eThekwini Disability Business Chamber received tools to boost their businesses. Equipment handed over included laptops, printers, cameras, cooking stoves, grass-cutting machines, industrial sewing machines, washing machines, and fridges.

This support was provided under the Informal Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP), which is a programme of the Department of Small Business Development focusing on empowering small businesses and cooperatives, particularly in townships and rural areas.

Councillor Ntuli said: ‘’The handover of equipment to informal traders is a significant step towards empowering small businesses cooperatives. Through initiatives like the IMEDP together with national government, we are committed to creating opportunities for growth, job creation, and economic transformation in our community,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

By equipping businesses with the right tools, the programme helps them grow, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Noko Manyelo, Acting Head of Communications and Marketing at the Department of Small Business Development said: ‘’This initiative represents more than just a handover of equipment; it is about restoring dignity and creating real opportunities.’’

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

 

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

THIRTEEN outstanding eThekwini fashion designers and new models were honoured at the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) Recognition Awards on 26 September at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Sibu Msimang, recipient of the Durban Fashion Fair Special Recognition Award, was honoured for her two-decade career in fashion. She is flanked by the Chairperson of the City's Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli and eThekwini Municipality's SMME Development Director, Nonku Mthembu. | Photo: Supplied. 

The awards formed part of the 2025 Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards, which celebrate thriving small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises across the City.

Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of the ladieswear brand ZWANDYY, won the top honour of Durban Designer of the Year. His award-winning collection, Beauty in Black, was inspired by his community and personal journey.

Another highlight of the evening was the Special Recognition Award presented to Sibu Msimang, whose career spans more than two decades and includes both local and international showcases.

Other winners included Slo Makhanya, founder of Nomalawee, who received the Collection of the Week Award along with R15 000 in support for her African modern collection featuring multi-functional garments with volume and layers.

Thami Njabulo, head of Monarch Detailer, won Best Menswear Collection, while Pinky Dlamini’s Modesta received Best Ladieswear Collection. The Fashion Innovator Award went to Kireshen Chetty, a designer and architect celebrated for his innovative designs.

Dfant Fashion Clothing was named Next Generation / Emerging Durban Designer. The DFF Rising Star Awards went to Melissa Dlamini in first place, Siphesihle Khumalo in second place, and Siphumelele Shange in third place.

In the modelling category, Sithembiso Mhlongo won New Face Male, Zandile Lungwase received New Face Female, and Mandisa Khuboni was awarded New Face Plus Size.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the DFF Recognition Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the City’s fashion talent.

‘’These awards are part of eThekwini’s Fashion Development Programme and follow a highly successful DFF showcase, which connected local talent with various industry roleplayers. For over a decade, the Fashion Development Programme has been a vital platform for designers to access markets while promoting local manufacturing, entrepreneurship and job creation. It is crucial that we continue to support these designers with enterprise development tools,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

 

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

TO COMMEMORATE Public Service Month, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba led a series of impactful activities aimed at improving service delivery and engaging directly with both Municipal staff and the public.

Kicking off the Public Service Month activities on 25 September, Mayor Xaba led a walkabout at the Revenue Customer Services Centre based in the Florence Mkhize Building. During the walkabout, he interacted with frontline staff and observed operations.

Mayor Xaba also visited the Arrears Management Section to assess the revenue clearance and sale in execution processes, reinforcing the City’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and resident-focused services.

Following this, Mayor Xaba officially opened a newly upgraded 2km blacktop road in Inkangala, Emagabheni. Previously a gravel road, this R6.3 million low-volume road project was designed internally and now connects rural households to the main road, significantly improving mobility and access. The upgrade has positively impacted service delivery, particularly for water tankers that previously struggled to reach the community due to poor road conditions.

Mayor Xaba said water delivery is now consistent and reliable in the area. ‘’We are also encouraged that this project contributed to local economic empowerment, employing several community members, which included women and youth.’’

He added: ‘’The initiative reflects the Batho Pele Principles by placing residents at the heart of service delivery. These activities form part of our 2030 vision.’’

Highlights from reSURGEnce Durban 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 12, 2025

A successful reSURGEnce Conference Durban 2025 was recently held from 20 to 24 September at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

From business showcases and tech innovation to impactful discussions and cultural tours, Durban came alive with ideas, opportunities, and action during the reSURGEnce Conference. | Photo: Supplied. 

The two days of the conference brought together leaders, investors, innovators, stakeholders and entrepreneurs from Africa and the World.

The focus of the conference was focused on strategies to ensure the continent’s economy is inclusive and shared by all. Delegates left with renewed purpose and plans to create opportunities for small businesses, unlock global trade links, and drive growth for all.

Talks focused on empowering historically disadvantaged businesses, regenerating urban spaces without displacing communities, and positioning Durban as a technology hub through the Silicon Durban initiative, which was inspired by the successful Silicon Harlem in New York.

Silicon Harlem’s Chief Executive Officer, Clayton Banks, shared key insights on how Durban can replicate this model to become Africa’s rising tech hub.

‘’We are planning to leverage existing structures as reporting lines to ensure Durban delivers on the commitments made here,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele.

He also gave key steps to achieve this which included: ongoing mentorship and export readiness programmes for historically disadvantaged businesses, creating a digital youth database, improving access for small businesses through streamlined purchasing platforms, and aligning local and U.S.A trade frameworks.

‘’We are optimistic that the partnerships forged here will translate into sustainable jobs, thriving businesses, and a resilient City economy. Together, we are rewriting the story of Africa’s place in global trade,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

One of the many businesses that had a stand at the exhibition. | Photo: Supplied. 

The conference also featured business engagements and exhibitions. Five local businesses exhibiting were chosen to present on stage to all the delegates.

‘’Being part of reSURGEnce Durban gave me maximum exposure. I gained new customers from outside South Africa, including Uganda. This opportunity has opened the door for my business to grow internationally,’’ said Thando Chisane of Uthando Glow Skin.

The conference ended on 24 September and then delegates explored the City’s historic and cultural landmarks in commemoration of Heritage Day.

Nu Metro Gateway Now Open

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 7, 2025

Nu Metro opened its newest flagship cinema at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Friday, 3 October.

 

The cinema complex is full of luxury, innovation, and immersive entertainment in the heart of Umhlanga Ridge.

 

The Nu Metro Gateway complex has 9 state-of-the-art cinemas, including the country’s first-ever ScreenX auditorium.  This features a 270-degree panoramic format that surrounds the audience with visuals on three walls.

 

Guests can also experience 4DX, Scene Xtreme, and a dedicated Kidz Cinema. There is also VIP Premiere Cinemas with plush leather recliners, an exclusive lounge area, and a gourmet curated menu with full-service bar.

 

‘’This complex sets the benchmark for what the future of cinema should feel like,’’ said Beverley Govender, Senior Marketing Manager, at Nu Metro.

 

Expect loads of giveaways, loyalty rewards, exclusive competitions, VIP ticket giveaways and surprises in October. For October you can experience ScreenX for only R100 and see F1, How to Train your Dragon and Superman. 

 

Get tickets at the box office or online at numetro.co.za  

EThekwini Appoints FNB as Banking Partner

 

First National Bank (FNB) has been appointed as the Municipality’s new banking partner, effective from 1 October 2025.

In accordance with the regulations set out by the Minister of Finance, the Municipality’s banking contract is reviewed and subject to change every five years through a public tender process. With the current contract expiring on 30 September 2025, the Municipality concludes a successful 10 year partnership – two full terms – with Nedbank.

Following the public tender process, which was open to financial institutions registered under the Banking Act, FNB emerged as the successful bidder, offering the most competitive and cost-effective proposal.

As the Municipality’s new banking partner, FNB will provide a comprehensive range of services including:

•       A user-friendly banking system

•       Competitive bank charges and commissions

•       A real-time, dedicated support team

•       Bulk cash handling facilities

•       Speed point terminal services

•       Internet and electronic banking solutions

•       Bank guarantees and overdraft facilities

•       Defined overdraft facilities

•       Electronic foreign exchange payment capabilities

•       Market agency services

 

‘’We are excited to welcome FNB as our banking partner and look forward to a productive and value-driven partnership,’’ said eThekwini City Manager, Musa Mbhele.

 

FNB’s Provincial Head – Commercial Public Sector, Annie Spangenberg, said the institution is delighted to partner with eThekwini.

The Rocky Horror Show at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre till 12 Oct

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 28, 2025

KickstArt is back with a brand-new production of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Show, with performances at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre up till 12 October.

Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet, Tshepo Ncokoane as Frank N Furter, Bryan Hiles as Brad. Photo: Val Adamson. 

The show is directed by Steven Stead, with set designs by multi award-winning Greg King, costume designs by internationally lauded Monaco-based Terrence Bray. Musical director is Evan Roberts who leads a live onstage band playing all the classics like The Time Warp, Transvestite, Touch-a-Touch Me and Damn It, Janet. Choreography is done by Simone Mann.

The cast list is impressive and includes Tshepo Ncokoane as the iconic cross-dressing mad scientist, Frank N Furter, Durban actor Bryan Hiles as Brad, Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet. Schoeman Smit as Riff Raff, Belinda Henwood as Magenta, Kaylee McIlroy as Columbia, William Young as Rocky, Lyle Buxton as Eddie/Dr Scott, and Michael Gritten as The Narrator.

The Rocky Horror Show  is a delicious homage to kitsch and campy B-grade horror and science fiction movies. Interesting note, it is also credited for igniting the punk rock look of ripped fishnets, statement eyeliner, wild, dyed hair and not to mention scarlet red lipstick.

The Rocky Horror Show  runs at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in  Durban till 12 October. Performances are at 7h30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 2h30pm Saturday and 6pm on Sunday.

Bookings through Webtickets.