Durban Fashion Fair Celebrates 15 Years

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 12, 2026

The Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) opened its doors 15 years ago, creating a platform for emerging designers, offering a platform for mentorship and exposure, now some of its earliest success stories will return to the runway when the Durban Exhibition Centre hosts three nights of fashion, creativity and enterprise from 16 to 18 September under the theme ‘’Where Legacy Lives’’, to mark the DFF15 milestone.

DFF15 will reflect the passing of the creative baton from one generation to the next. | Photo: Supplied. 

This showcase will bring together established designers, emerging talent and the DFF Mentee Class of 2026. The participation of former mentees, demonstrates DFF’s impact in nurturing talent, creating business opportunities, expanding market access and building industry recognition.

One of them is Kwenzi Nkomo of Indoni Fashion House, who made her DFF debut in 2014. She has gone on to showcase internationally, including at Ethiopia Fashion Week and Pure London, supplies boutiques and major retailers in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, and won DFF Designer of the Year in 2022. She recently showcased at Uganda International Fashion Week.

‘’The theme fits perfectly to our journey. We will be celebrating the impact we leave behind through our work. It is about preserving our culture, inspiring the next generation of creatives, and building a brand that will continue to empower people long into the future. Legacy is created through consistency, excellence, and the lives we touch along the way,’’ said Nkomo.

Show schedule for the 15 years of Durban Fashion Fair taking place at Durban Exhibition Centre, from 16 to 18 September under the theme: 'Where Legacy Lives'. | Photo: Supplied. 

Approximately 84 designers will feature across the three nights, with shows at 18h00, 19h00, 20h00 and 21h00. Tickets are R120 per show, R250 for a day pass and R500 for a three-day pass.

The showcase ends with the Durban Fashion Fair Recognition Awards on 19 September, where the best designers will receive cheques towards business development equipment to assist productivity.

The eThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the Municipality remains committed to growing the sector through skills development, market access, financial support, equipment and mentoring, supporting self-employment and job creation.

DFF showcase tickets are available through Webtickets, Pick ‘n Pay and Boxer.

Successful Invest India 2026 Seminar

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 1, 2026

There were many businesses, entrepreneurs and investors from KwaZulu-Natal in attendance at the Invest India 2026 Seminar which was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Umhlanga on 11 August 2026.

The Invest India 2026 Seminar had speakers which included H.E. Niteen Subhash Yeola, Consul General of India in Durban, The eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Cyrl Xaba and Dr Suren Lutchminarayan, UBN President. | Photo: Supplied.  

The seminar was hosted by the Consulate General of India in Durban, with support from the Umhlanga Business Network (UBN), Cll-India Business Forum, SBI South Africa and GIO Africa. The seminar saw business leaders, professionals, industry representatives and investors coming to together to discuss how stronger commercial partnerships can be developed between India and South Africa.

Delegates were shown opportunities across many sectors including manufacturing, technology, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, renewable energy, retail investment, innovation and startups, while also exploring the potential for joint ventures, technology exchange and market expansion.

For KZN businesses, the seminar was an important platform to understand the opportunities presented by India’s rapidly expanding economy and to work on direct relationships with organisations and individuals involved in facilitating investment.

‘’KwaZulu-Natal has a vibrant and entrepreneurial business community and there is considerable scope for our businesses to develop stronger partnerships with India,’’ said UBN President, Dr Suren Lutchminarayan.

Dr Lutchminarayan said South African companies should increasingly consider India as a market for expansion, investment, technology collaboration and business partnerships, while South Africa could also provide Indian companies with a strategic gateway into the African continent.

H.E. Niteen Subhash Yeola, Consul General of India in Durban said: ‘’The strong response to Invest India 2026 demonstrates the growing interest in strengthening economic ties between India and South Africa. We encourage businesses in KwaZulu-Natal and across South Africa to explore the many opportunities for investment, trade and collaboration with India.’’

Delegates were also shown a comprehensive presentation from the Invest India team from Delhi showing opportunities in many sectors. There were also presentations on GIFT City and Retail Investments in India. After this there were panel discussions involving leading Indian and South African business leaders. This was followed by networking and discussions on future collaborations.

UBN congratulated the Consulate General of India in Durban, speakers, participating organisations and delegates on the success of the event and said the priority now was to maintain the momentum generated through the seminar.

Enforcement operations strengthen road safety

 

Enforcement operations strengthen road safety 

ETHEKWINI Municipality continues to prioritise road safety and freight compliance through proactive enforcement operations conducted along key transport corridors. During July, a series of joint freight enforcement operations were undertaken on the M7/N2 corridor and at the Mariannhill Toll Plaza, bringing together the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA), and the City’s Metro Police, Fire Directorate, and eThekwini Transport Authority (ETA). 

These multi-agency operations form part of the Municipality’s broader commitment to promoting safer roads, improving compliance with traffic legislation and municipal by-laws, and supporting the efficient movement of freight through Durban, home to South Africa’s busiest port. Each participating agency played a specialised role during the operations. 

The Fire Directorate inspected dangerous goods documentation to ensure compliance with relevant regulations, while RTI officials focused on traffic law enforcement and provided motorists with opportunities to settle outstanding traffic fines on site. RTIA officials educated drivers on the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system and 

assisted them with checking infringement records. Metro Police and ETA officials provided enforcement support and co-ordinated operational activities. 

Four enforcement operations were conducted on 7, 9, 14 and 15 July respectively. Officers recorded six compulsory stop sign violations and identified 16 cases where drivers failed 

to produce the required dangerous goods certificates. A total of R92 500 in fines was issued, while 26 fines were settled on site, generating R15 800 in payments. Importantly, 272 vehicles were inspected and drivers were educated on safety and compliance 

By combining education with enforcement, the Municipality is strengthening accountability in the freight sector and making the roads safer for everyone.              Picture: SUPPLIED

Over R127 million invested for road upgrade programme

 

Over R127 million invested for road upgrade programme

EThekwini Municipality continues to drive the revitalisation of Durban’s inner city through the successful implementation of its Inner City Road Rehabilitation Programme. The initiative has seen the upgrade of key transport routes. The improved road network is enhancing mobility, safety, and connectivity while supporting economic growth and the broader regeneration of the city centre.                  Picture: SUPPLIED

EThekwini Municipality has reached a major milestone in its ongoing efforts to revitalise Durban’s inner city through the successful implementation of its Inner City Road Rehabilitation Programme. During the 2025/26 financial year, the Municipality invested approximately R127.9 million in the rehabilitation of 13 strategic roads across the inner city and surrounding areas. The programme resulted in the upgrade of approximately 65 lane-kilometres of road infrastructure, enabling the Roads and Infrastructure Management Directorate to exceed its annual resurfacing target.

This investment forms part of the Municipality’s broader Inner City Regeneration Programme. Major roads rehabilitated through the programme include Umgeni Road, Dr Pixley ka Seme Street, K E Masinga Road, Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, Sandile Thusi Road, Margaret Mncadi Avenue, Soldiers Way, Smiso Nkwanyana Road, and the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Freeway (M4), among others. The extensive works have significantly improved conditions along key transport corridors used daily by thousands of commuters, residents, businesses, and public transport operators. In addition to road resurfacing, the projects have enhanced stormwater drainage systems, improved pedestrian and road safety, and reduced long-term maintenance requirements.

Acting Deputy Head of Roads and Infrastructure Management, Thanda Zulu, said: “An investment of nearly R128 million in our inner city road network reflects the Municipality’s commitment to rebuilding critical infrastructure.

Zulu added that the programme also highlights the valuable contribution of the Municipality’s internal roads teams. “Out of the 13 roads rehabilitated during the 2025/26 financial year, four projects were completed entirely by municipal teams.”

Elation as service delivery projects in outer west bring renewed hope

 

Elation as service delivery projects in outer west bring renewed hope

Several service delivery projects that will make a tangible difference in communities was recently unveiled by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba (left) in the outer west region. This includes a house handover where recipient Babhekile Zwane (centre) could not contain her excitement when Mayor Xaba and Deputy Chairperson of the Human Settlements and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Sifiso Mkhize officially handed over a newly built house to her.                               Picture: THULI DLAMINI

EThekwini Municipality leadership, led by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, officially unveiled several multi-million-rand service delivery projects in the outer west region on 23 July.

The Mayor was joined by Executive Committee members and councillors including Councillor Thembo Ntuli, Councillor Zama Sokhabase, Councillor Themba Mvubu, and Councillor Sifiso Mkhize.

The programme concluded with a community engagement attended by thousands of residents from KwaNyuswa, KwaNgcolosi, Embo, and surrounding areas.

Addressing the gathering, Mayor Xaba emphasised the Municipality’s commitment to expanding the KwaNqetho Water Reservoir to meet the growing needs of the community.

“The reservoir was upgraded from a capacity of one megalitre after a study conducted in 2021 established that the population in KwaNgcolosi had increased by an additional 2 500 households. The Municipality therefore took a decision to increase the reservoir’s capacity to six megalitres,” he said.

Mayor Xaba further announced plans for a new reservoir in KwaNyuswa, where intermittent water supply remains a challenge. A suitable site has already been identified for this project.

“As a City, we continue to invest in water infrastructure to stabilise water supply in both urban and rural communities so that no one is left behind,” he said.

In terms of road infrastructure, Mayor Xaba highlighted that the Municipality has constructed six access roads in KwaNyuswa and Maphephetheni, including rehabilitation works on roads damaged during the devastating 2022 floods. The community warmly welcomed the projects and the lasting impact it will have on their lives.

Inspiring Women

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 19, 2026

August is Women’s Month and Durban Life takes a look at some of the inspiring women shaping our society in South Africa.

Nasmera Buckus, COO at Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) – Founder of the Northern Collective

‘’For me, leadership is not only about reaching a position of influence. It is about what we choose to do with the influence, who we bring into the conversation, whose voice we amplify and which doors we open for the women coming behind us,’’ said Nasmera Buckus.

Dr Aobakwe Segwe, leading radiologist, entrepreneur and co-founder of the Centre of Medical Imaging (CMI)

‘’Leadership isn’t measured by personal success alone but by how many young people grow because of your influence. I aim to drive research that lets Africa contribute its own evidence to global medicine, rather than importing findings built on other populations,’’ said Dr Segwe.

Karen Farred, CEO, Girls and Boys Town South Africa

‘’As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month under the theme ‘’Empowered Women Empower the Nation,’’ I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary women who have shaped my own leadership journey and those who continue to make an immeasurable difference in the lives of children and families every day. Their courage, empathy, and determination remind me that empowerment is not simply about personal success, it is about personal success; it is about creating opportunities for others to flourish.

Botlhale Boikanyo, Poet, Actress and UNFPA Regional International Conference on Poplulation and Development (ICPD) Youth Champion

‘’My hope and dream is to live in a world where every young person, especially women and girls, has the freedom and opportunities to shape their own future and is included in the rooms where decisions about their lives are made,’’ said Botlhale Boikanyo.

Laverne De Jager, Founder of the 2026 Scottfin Revive Selfcare Summit

‘’The self-care was never created simply to host an event, although from a marketing perspective, it has helped boost our brand connection, says De Jager. ‘’It began because we saw too many women running on empty. Women are the heartbeat of families, businesses and communities, yet they’re often the last people to receive care themselves. We wanted to create something that reminds women that investing in themselves isn’t selfish – it’s essential. When women are restored, everything around them becomes stronger.’’

Tourism Month 2026 Launched as Durban Takes Centre Stage

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 16, 2026

Tourism Month 2026 was officially launched by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, in Durban on Thursday, 13 August. The theme for Tourism Month is ‘’Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era’’, beginning on 1 September and driving towards World Tourism Day on 27 September.

Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, Dignitaries and Surprise guest Sho Madjozi at the launch of Tourism Month 2026 in Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

Durban continues to attract visitors, delegates and investment while showcasing the best of the country to local and international markets. Durban is South Africa’s premier coastal destination and a leading host of major events, conferences and meeting place for business events.

The timing of this launch is significant as the city hosts the 46^th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government from 16 to 17 August, at which South Africa takes Chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community for the 2026/27 term.

The Minister’s visit shows Durban’s position as a destination that can bring business, tourism, investment and cultural experiences together successfully.

Durban has also been confirmed as the host city for Africa’s Travel Indaba from 2026 to 2030.

The city is currently hosting a programme of regional and business engagements, providing opportunities to showcase its world-class conference and events infrastructure, but also the diverse experiences in Durban.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cllr Cyril Xaba and delegates from SADC explored Max's Lifestyle Village. | Photo: Supplied. 

Delegates from SADC have also explored the city’s heritage at the historic KwaMuhle Museum, experienced uMlazi, where they were welcomed at Max’s Lifestyle Village for an authentic township experience.

Recent milestones for Durban include the successful hosting of the Industrialisation Workshop, preparations for the 46^th SADC Summit, and site visits undertaken by the Presidential eThekwini Working Group together with the Municipality’s Executive Committee, further strengthening Durban’s profile as a destination of choice for business, investment and tourism.

EThekwini recorded the lowest official unemployment rate of South Africa’s eight metropolitan municipalities, at 21.2% according to Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2026.

The survey estimated that around 1.29 million people in the city were employed in the second quarter, 90 000 more than in the same quarter of 2025 the largest year-on-year increase recorded in any metro, and a change Statistics South Africa reported as statistically significant.

Minister de Lille’s message that ‘’tourism begins at home’’ resonated strongly with Durban’s approach to growing the domestic tourism market. South Africans are encouraged to take a Sho’t Left and explore their own country. Durban offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors from across the country and the region.

The Minister also highlighted, technology is changing how travellers discover destinations, plan journeys and make travel decisions. For Durban’s tourism businesses, particularly SMMEs and emerging enterprises, this is an opportunity to reach new audiences and showcase experiences beyond the city’s normal tourism attractions.

‘’Durban is experiencing an exciting tourism and business buzz, and the launch of Tourism Month has provided another important platform to showcase the city’s readiness to welcome visitors, delegates, investors and event organisers,’’ said Councillor Thembo Ntuli, Chairperson of eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee.

Durban’s established position as a leading business-events destination, together with its role in hosting major regional and international engagements, creates opportunities to extend visitor stays, stimulate local spending and expose delegates and visitors to the wider Durban tourism offering.

With Tourism Month approaching, Durban invites South Africans, regional visitors and international travellers to discover the city for themselves – even for a weekend getaway, a business trip extended into a leisure experience, a cultural journey or an authentic township experience.

City Launches Musical Theatre Production Developing Local Creatives

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 12, 2026

The show ‘Amandla Phumelela’ was premiered by eThekwini Municipality on 7 August. The show is a bold new local musical theatre production developed through the city’s Theatre Residency Programme.

This production came after the city held a public call for auditions, which invited actors, writers and directors, and which saw many young creatives come from all over the city to show their talent.

A total of sixteen young creatives were selected for their acting abilities, stage presence and powerful vocal performances and they form part of the Municipality’s first Theatre Residency.

The production officially opened on 7 August and will run until 16 August at The Stable Theatre. Entrance is free.

Amandla Phumelela is a powerful musical that explores the realities confronting many young South Africans. It is written and directed by Jerry Pooe, featuring choreography by Sfiso Mathibela. The show uses storytelling, music and drama and tackles issues such as substance abuse, abandonment, identity, and the search for love, purpose and belonging, while delivering a message of hope, resilience and transformation.

‘’Members of the cast are now receiving mentorship from industry professionals, theatre training and access to performance opportunities that will strengthen their artistic development and prepare them for the professional theatre environment,’’ said Director of Recreation and Parks, Dr Simphiwe Ndlovu.

By investing in emerging artists, the eThekwini Municipality continues to position Durban as a vibrant hub for artistic excellence and cultural innovation.

For bookings, contact Musa Ntuli of the Arts and Culture Division on 031 322 8789 or musa.ntuli@durban.gov.za

SAACI 2026 Conference Delivers Huge Partnerships and Major Investment Boost for Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Aug. 5, 2026

The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) 2026 National Annual Conference has just finished at The Capital Zimbali with a huge success, bringing together South Africa’s business events leaders in a powerful show of innovation and collaboration.

The SAACI 2026 National Annual Conference inspired the business events industry with a renewed commitment to collaborate, driving the future of South Africa's MICE sector and creating lasting economic impact. Photo: Supplied. 

The conference was held over three days and reinforced Durban’s standing as Africa’s premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination by showcasing world-class infrastructure, authentic hospitality, and a thriving tourism economy.

Durban’s world-class business events infrastructure, hospitality, and tourism offerings were put on show for delegates through a programme of industry discussions, networking opportunities and destination experiences.

One of the key highlights was Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani’s announcement of a R250 million phased refurbishment, which started on 27 July 2026. For the next three years, both hotel towers will be transformed through redesigned guest rooms, upgraded public spaces, and enhanced facilities, further strengthening Durban’s tourism and hospitality offering.

‘’Such conferences are powerful drivers of investment, tourism growth, innovation, and job creation. We are proud to have showcased Durban’s exceptional hospitality and business events offering while welcoming continued investment from partners such as Southern Sun,’’ said Durban Tourism Deputy Head Winile Mntungwa.

Mntungwa noted the City’s commitment to consolidating Durban’s position as Africa’s leading MICE destination.

The conference ended with a renewed pledge from industry stakeholders to continue building partnerships, driving innovation, and growing South Africa’s business events industry.

Southern African Development Community Industrialisation Week Kicked Off In Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Jul. 31, 2026

The powerful message conveyed at the 9^th annual Southern African Development Community (SADC) Industrialisation Week was ‘’Industrialisation remains the most effective pathway to economic transformation.’’

Mayor Xaba delivering his speech at the 9th SADC Industrialization Week. | Photo: Thuli Dlamini.

The event was held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) and started on 27 July 2026.

The five-day event was officially opened by Mayor Cyril Xaba, he welcomed delegates, government leaders, investors, and business representatives from across the Southern African region.

SADC Industrialisation Week (SIW) is the Southern African Development Community’s flagship week-long event aimed at advancing regional industrial development, investment, and economic transformation.

The programme for the week included high-level policy dialogues and technical sessions, investment and trade facilitation discussions, networking opportunities, strategic business and investment engagements, exhibitions, and industrial and factory site visits.

The theme for the event was, ‘’Open, Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World,’’ the event focused on strengthening regional trade, expanding industrial capacity, and creating sustainable jobs.

The goals for the week were to advance the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap 2015-2063, which is centred on three pillars: industrialisation, competitiveness, and regional integration.

The event aimed to deepen regional value chains in agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and critical minerals beneficiation; drive infrastructure development in energy, transport, logistics, water, and ICT; and promote investment mobilisation and industrial partnerships.

The objectives will be achieved while empowering women and young entrepreneurs through innovation and digital transformation.

With his opening address, Mayor Xaba said eThekwini is honoured to host this important gathering, describing Durban as a strategic gateway to Africa and a city committed to driving regional industrialisation, investment, and economic growth.

‘’This platform enables us to share experiences, forge effective partnerships, create opportunities, and identify innovative solutions. Aspirations alone will not bring about transformation, real implementation and the creation of opportunities for industries and businesses must lead the way’’ said SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau said industrialisation provides a foundation for productivity, economic diversification, technological advancement, and greater resilience against external shocks. He added that stakeholders must be mindful of strategic vulnerabilities and focus on implementing outcomes that are measurable and visible.

The rest of the week featured discussions on investment, technology, pharmaceuticals, market access, and other key areas.

Applications Open for eThekwini's Smart Energy Pilot

 

By Fred Felton | Jul. 31, 2026

Households that qualify from across eThekwini are invited to apply to be part of a smart energy pilot which is designed to help homes use energy more intelligently.

Apply for eThekwini's Smart Energy Pilot. | Photo: Supplied. 

The midday sun can be used better with solar devices. Peak demand can put pressure on the Municipality’s resources. The biggest portion of electricity bills is electric geysers.

These devices can help reduce your electricity bill. You could save up to R300 on your electricity bill. The project aims to help with peak demand reduction, a cleaner future and energy security. 

Applications are currently open and close at the end of August. Project Smart Solar is backed by the eThekwini Municipality. There are only 280 spots available.

The pilot project is being delivered by the City in partnership with Plentify, a South African energy tech company, and supported by international development partners, including the Agence Franҫaise de Développement, the European Union, and the EU Delegation to South Africa.

‘’Project Smart Solar is an important step in exploring how households can become part of a more resilient energy future for eThekwini,’’ said Sindile Buthelezi, Energy Efficiency Manager at eThekwini Municipality.

Project Smart Solar includes a local skills development section. Youth recruited via the eThekwini Municipal Academy database will be upskilled by professional installation teams from Plentify and employed to support installations where possible.

‘’Skills development is an important part of making the energy transition more inclusive. It offers hands-on experience and transferable technical skills to young people,’’ noted Tumisang Kalagobe, Project Smart Solar Lead at Plentify.

Homes that have solar and battery systems are especially encouraged to apply and could qualify if they have: an electric geyser, solar PV panels, battery storage, a compatible inverter system and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.

Households without solar, also qualify if they have an electric geyser and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.

Those selected participants will receive the Plentify Home Energy Management System, which includes SolarBot and/or HotBot devices and access to the Plentify Home App.

A SolarBot is Plentify’s intelligent controller for solar and battery systems that assists households to use more solar energy, rely less on the grid, and stay protected during outages.

A HotBot is Plentify’s intelligent geyser controller that automatically heats water at the right times based on a household’s needs, ensuring hot water is available when needed while reducing unnecessary electricity use.

Professional installation and ongoing support will also be provided at no cost during the pilot.

You can apply for this opportunity here: https://plentify.io/project-smart-solar/

Fashion Designers Apply For 15th Durban Fashion Fair Showcase

 

By Fred Felton | July 30, 2026

The Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) has spent 15 years transforming emerging local designers into successful fashion entrepreneurs.

The programme celebrates its landmark 15^th edition under the theme ‘’Where Legacy Lives’’, and eThekwini Municipality is inviting fashion designers to be part of this milestone showcase.

Applications close on 31 July 2026.

Designers interested in showcasing their collections can apply by completing the online application form at https://forms.gle/9yHiqibirFNaxtLq9

The 15th DFF takes place from 16 to 18 September at the Durban Exhibition Centre ending with the Recognition Awards on 19 September.

Expect to see designers who joined the programme 14 years ago and have since built successful fashion businesses and created employment and showcased globally. It will also include the next generation of fashion household names currently participating in the intensive 10-month DFF Mentorship Programme which highlights the City’s continued investment in developing creative talent and growing the local fashion economy.

‘’For the past 15 years, the DFF has demonstrated that fashion is a powerful driver of economic development,’’ said the City’s Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli.

Through initiatives like the DFF Emporium at uMlazi Mega City and seasonal pop-up shops, the programme continues to empower micro, small and medium enterprises while positioning Durban as one of Africa’s leading fashion destinations.

For more information, contact nondumiso.mthembu@durban.gov.za

Spaar wat jy kan - jou toekoms hang daarvan af

 

Jou hardverdiende geld is lank voor die einde van die maand op, en dit voel asof dit eenvoudig nie moontlik is om vir iets betekenisvols te spaar nie. In plaas daarvan om nog ’n finansiële las by te voeg, stel baie mense spaar uit totdat hulle eendag meer verdien.

Spaar wat jy kan - jou toekoms hang daarvan af.

Maar kom ons wees eerlik: ’n Hoër inkomste lei dikwels tot ’n duurder leefstyl, hoër uitgawes en steeds geen spaargeld nie.

Spaar gaan nie daaroor om vir ’n groter salaris te wag nie. Dit gaan daaroor om die gewoonte te kweek om gereeld geld opsy te sit – selfs klein bedrae – sodat jy mettertyd ’n veiliger finansiële toekoms kan bou.

Hierdie Spaarmaand daag die Vereniging vir Spaar en Belegging Suid-Afrika (ASISA) jou uit om te spaar wat jy kan, want jou toekoms hang daarvan af.

Spaar vir jou toekoms

Daar is twee belangrike redes waarom jy behoort te spaar. Eerstens is die lewe onvoorspelbaar. ’n Noodfonds kan help om onverwagte mediese uitgawes, herstelwerk of skoolkoste te betaal sonder dat jy op duur skuld hoef staat te maak.

Tweedens moet jy vir jou aftrede voorsiening maak. Hoe meer jy vir aftrede spaar, hoe groter is jou finansiële onafhanklikheid en hoe minder afhanklik sal jy van ander wees. ’n Gesonde aftreefonds gee jou ook die geleentheid om jou aftrede met groter gemak en gemoedsrus te geniet.

Dit gaan minder oor hoeveel jy spaar en meer oor die gewoonte om konsekwent te spaar. Selfs R20 of R50 wat gereeld opsy gesit word, kan met verloop van tyd aansienlik groei. Wanneer jou spaargeld belê bly, trek dit voordeel uit saamgestelde groei – met ander woorde, jy verdien rente op rente.

Hierdie Spaarmand daag jouself uit om te spaar wat jy kan deur die volgende mites te ontken:

Mite 1: “Ek kan begin spaar wanneer ek meer verdien.”

Moenie wag vir die perfekte tyd nie. Begin eerder met ’n bedrag wat jy gemaklik kan bekostig en laat dit outomaties op betaaldag na ’n spaarrekening oorplaas word. Hou jou spaargeld in ’n vaste deposito of soortgelyke rekening om onnodige onttrekkings te voorkom.

Spaarwenk: Verminder een klein uitgawe hierdie maand – ‘n koeldrank by middagete of wegneemetes op Vrydagaand -  en plaas daardie bedrag direk in ’n aparte spaarrekening.

Mite 2: “Om klein bedrae te spaar maak geen verskil nie.”

Baie mense dink spaar werk net as jy elke maand baie geld wegsteek. Elke suksesvolle spaarder het klein begin.

Wanneer jy gereeld spaar, groei nie net jou spaargeld nie, maar ook jou selfvertroue. Gebruik ekstra inkomste, soos ’n bonus of stokvel-uitbetaling, om jou spaargeld verder aan te vul.

Konsekwentheid is belangriker as volmaaktheid.

Spaarwenk: Spaar in ‘n spaarrekening vir ’n spesifieke doel, soos ’n “Noodfonds” of “Skoolfonds”. Mense bly makliker gemotiveerd wanneer hulle presies weet waarvoor hulle spaar.

Mite 3: “Dit maak nie saak as ek uit my aftreefonds se spaarpot onttrek nie.”

As jy reeds aan ’n aftreefonds behoort, is jy op die regte pad. Gereelde onttrekkings uit die spaarpot verminder egter jou uiteindelike aftreevoordeel aansienlik.

Jy verloor boonop die voordeel van saamgestelde groei, en onttrekkings is onderhewig aan belasting en administrasiefooie.

Spaarwenk: Bou ’n noodfonds op sodat onverwagte uitgawes nie jou aftreespaargeld in gevaar stel nie.

Spaar wat jy kan

Jy hoef nie perfek te spaar nie. Sommige maande sal moeiliker wees as ander, en dit is heeltemal normaal.

Wat werklik saak maak, is om die gewoonte te vorm om gereeld iets opsy te sit. Klein, gereelde spaargeld vandag kan jou môre meer keuses, groter finansiële sekerheid en groter gemoedsrus gee.

Hierdie Spaarmaand, moenie fokus op hoeveel jy kan spaar nie. Fokus daarop om eenvoudig te begin.

Spaar wat jy kan – jou toekoms hang daarvan af.

Hierdie inhoud word aan jou gebied deur die Vereniging vir Spaar en Belegging Suid-Afrika (ASISA) as deel van sy Spaarmaand-opvoedingsinisiatief om meer Suid-Afrikaners aan te moedig om #SpaarWatJyKan.

Save what you can - your future depends on it

 

Your hard-earned money disappears long before month-end and saving for something meaningful just never seems possible. Rather than worry about what seems like just another financial burden, you put off saving until, one day, you earn more.

Save what you can - your future depends on it. 

But let’s be honest: more money often leads to lifestyle changes, resulting in higher expenses and still no savings.

Saving is not about waiting for a higher income. It is about developing a habit of setting money aside regularly, even in small amounts, to help build a more secure future.

This Savings Month, the Association for Saving and Investment South Africa (ASISA) is challenging you to save what you can, because your future depends on it.

Saving for your future

You need to save for two main reasons. First, life is unpredictable. A small emergency fund can help you pay for unexpected medical costs, replace something that has broken, or cover school expenses without turning to expensive debt.

The second reason is to put money away for retirement. The more you have saved for your retirement, the more independent you can be because you won’t have to rely on your family to help you out. A nest egg in your old age will also enable you to enjoy a more comfortable retirement.

It is less about how much you save and more about making saving a regular habit. Saving R20 or R50 regularly may not seem like much today, but consistently putting something aside helps to build your savings over time. If you leave your savings for some time, the savings you set aside can benefit from compound growth, which means you will earn interest on interest. 

This Savings Month, challenge yourself to save what you can by busting the following myths:

Myth 1: "Starting when I earn more is early enough."

Instead of waiting for the perfect time, start with a small amount you can manage. Even a small amount saved every payday helps create the habit. Arrange for the small amount to be automatically deducted from your everyday account and transferred to your savings account on payday. Your savings should be held in a fixed deposit account to prevent easy access.

Savings tip: Choose one expense you can reduce slightly this month - a cold drink at lunch or takeaways on Friday night - and move that money into a separate savings account.

 

Myth 2: "Saving small amounts isn't worth it."

Many people think saving only works if you can put away lots of money every month. But every successful saver started somewhere.

Once you start, even with small amounts, your confidence grows, and you save more and more. When extra money comes your way, such as a stokvel payout or a work bonus, you can add more to your savings. But don't overlook the power of small amounts saved regularly. Over time, they can make a meaningful difference.

The important thing is consistency, not perfection.

Savings tip: When you save towards a goal, it makes it easier to save consistently. Set up a separate account and name it something meaningful like "Emergency Fund" or "School fees”. Many people are often more motivated to save when they know exactly what they are saving for.

Myth 3: “Dipping into my retirement fund’s savings pot is not a big deal.”

If you are lucky enough to have a retirement fund, you are already saving. But dipping into the savings portion of your retirement fund once a year drastically reduces what you will have available in your old age.

Even if you can replace the money taken from the savings pot in the future, you lose out on the compound growth. The more you take out of your savings pot every year, the less you will have at retirement when you are likely to need it most.

Also, remember that withdrawals from your savings pot are taxed and attract an administration fee.

Savings tip: Aim to build up an emergency savings fund, even if you start small. Instead of having to dip into your retirement savings for every unexpected expense, you can use the money in your emergency fund. This way, you allow your retirement savings to continue growing while avoiding taxes and fees.

Save what you can

You do not need to save perfectly. Some months will be harder than others, and that's okay.

What matters is creating the habit of putting something aside whenever you can. Small, regular savings today can give you more choices, more security and greater peace of mind tomorrow.

This Savings Month, don't focus on how much you can save. Focus on getting started.

Save what you can – your future depends on it.

This content is brought to you by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) as part of its Savings Month education initiative to help more South Africans #SaveWhatYouCan.