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