Call to exhibit at 28th Durban Business Fair

 

Call to exhibit at 28th Durban Business Fair

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO

MORE than 50 businesses have secured exhibition space for the 28^th Durban Business Fair (DBF).

EThekwini Municipality invites local entrepreneurs to register to exhibit at the fair before the 17 April deadline. Photo: Supplied. 

This year’s edition themed, ‘’28 years of connecting SMMEs to markets and opportunities’’, will take place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 20 April to 2 May.

EThekwini Municipality invites local entrepreneurs to register to exhibit at the fair before the 17 April deadline. In addition to the exhibition, the fair will feature a series of empowerment sessions, focusing on innovation, access to funding, and connecting businesses to international markets.

Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the fair played a significant role in strengthening the local small, medium, and micro sized enterprises (SMME) sector. ‘’Since 1998, more than 40 000 businesses have participated, with over 130 000 buyers and visitors attending and engaging with exhibitors. The initiative has helped create more than 21 000 sustainable jobs.’’

Application forms are available at:

·         199 Anton Lembede Street, 7^th Floor

·         All Sizakala Centres

·         Online from www.durban.gov.za by clicking the Business icon, then SMME Development and selecting the Durban Business Fair page.

·         Email zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za to request a form

 

For enquiries, businesses can call 031 311 4500.

EThekwini leads energy revival with refinery restoration

 

EThekwini leads energy revival with refinery restoration

KWANDA ZONDI

IN A decisive move to strengthen South Africa’s energy security, eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele, alongside the Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Phumzile Mgcina, conducted a strategic oversight visit to the former SAPREF Refinery in Prospecton recently.

Once a cornerstone of the country’s fuel production, the facility, now rebranded as the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Refinery, is being repositioned as a key driver of industrial renewal.

Strategically located within the petrochemical value chain and adjacent to the Port of Durban’s logistics hub, the refinery is central to the economic vitality of KwaZulu-Natal.

‘’This is more than a technical inspection; it signals strong alignment between national and local government,’’ said Deputy Minister Mgcina. Mbhele added: ‘’The SANPC Refinery is a critical asset for both the municipal and national economy. Its revival will ensure that eThekwini remains globally competitive in industrial development.’’

The refinery’s return to operation is expected to unlock strategic crude supply opportunities aligned with BRICS partnerships. By leveraging South Africa’s membership, the facility aims to secure more reliable and diversified energy sources, contributing to greater fuel price stability.

The restoration project is projected to deliver significant economic benefits, including approximately 12 500 construction jobs and 2 850 permanent positions. It is also expected to contribute an estimated 1.8 percent to the national GDP, with a strong emphasis on inclusive growth through a targeted 65 percent local content threshold.

2026/27 Draft Budget tabled for public consultation

 

2026/27 Draft Budget tabled 

for public consultation

ROMITA

HANUMAN-PILLAY

ETHEKWINI Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba tabled the City’s R74.7 billion budget during a Full Council meeting on 31 March at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

With an operating budget of R68.8 billion and a capital budget of R5.9 billion, it will now be released to all sectors for consultation and feedback and will thereafter be adopted in May, after considering all comments.

The Draft Budget is based on the principles of sustainability and realistic revenue projections and projects that are ready for rollout.

Mayor Xaba said: ‘’The 2026/27 Draft Budget highlights that eThekwini Municipality is able to endure a challenging economic environment and emerge stronger, more sustainable, and better positioned to serve communities. This budget balances fiscal discipline with targeted revenue growth, aiming to manage high debt while supporting vulnerable households, infrastructure and job creation.’’

As a caring Municipality, the provision of rates rebates and a basket of free basic services will be funded through equitable share. A significant chunk of the budget is prioritised for Trading Services Reforms, which aims to improve efficiency in water sanitation, and energy. A total of R1.1 billion will be spent on Trading Service Reform projects.

The capital budget for the 2026/27 financial year amounts to approximately R5.9 billion and will be spent on the upgrade and expansion of wastewater treatment works, replacement of water pipes, and water loss prevention.

The budget will be presented to residents, business, and civil society through a series of consultations that will be advertised on the City’s official platforms and in the media.

The proposed tariff increases are based on the increases submitted by bulk providers, Eskom (9 percent) and uMngeni-uThukela Water (13 percent), taking into account the affordability of residents and the sustainability of the Municipality.

Water

Residential – 15%

Business – 16%

Electricity

Residential – 10.5%

Business – 10.5%

Sanitation

Residential

Business

Property Rates – 5%

Refuse – 13%

To ensure alignment with ward priorities, the Municipality has started engagements with councillors. At these meetings, draft capital budget allocations are presented per ward, providing councillors with an opportunity to review proposed projects, identify any discrepancies or omissions, and submit corrections and additional inputs.

Highlights from Ocean Innovation Africa 2026

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 5, 2026

On 23^rd March the eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially opened the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC). During this time Durban was positioned as a world focal point for maritime innovation and sustainability.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially opened the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, positioning the City as a leading hub for Africa's blue economy. | Photo: Supplied. 

The summit took place from 23 to 25 March and transformed Durban into a dynamic hub where people from around the globe came together to discuss maritime issues.

This event brought together leading innovators, investors, and policymakers with a shared mission of advancing sustainable ocean development while unlocking economic growth across Africa.

In his keynote address, Mayor Xaba emphasised Durban’s strategic role in shaping the future of the sector.

‘’We are not just looking at the horizon, we are navigating toward it. From regenerative action that heals our coastline to cutting-edge maritime technology powering our ports, Durban is the heartbeat of the African blue-economy,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The theme of the summit was ‘’Accelerating and Scaling Out Regenerative Blue Economy Action.’’ There were various discussions and workshops around issues such as artificial intelligence, sustainable aquaculture, and innovative coastal management strategies.

There were participants and speakers from around the world including Charlina Vitcheva of the European Commission.

‘’The state of the ocean needs action. We need to scale up. EU is investing in future governance of oceans. Ocean science must be developed everywhere. Challenges are big but so are the opportunities to make a difference,’’ noted Ms. Charlina Vitcheva of the European Commission.

South African startups also presented breakthrough solutions in areas such as plastic-neutural shipping and reef restoration, showing the country’s readiness to lead in sustainable ocean practices.

OceanHub Africa’s Impact Report was also released at the summit. Alexis Grosskopf, Founder and CEO of OceanHub Africa was very upbeat about the event and that is why they decided to release the report at the event.

‘’We are an impact driven organisation. How are we going to measure, we need standards,’’ said Alexis Grosskopf of OceanHub Africa.

He was also thankful to eThekwini Municipality for helping them with this event.

‘’They have helped us tremendously, they have attended previous events, they came to us and said let’s make it happen in Durban. The eThekwini Municipality also provided us with the best venue in the Durban ICC’’ noted Alexis Grosskopf of OceanHub Africa.

The summit included intensive workshops and B2B meetings between global investors, entrepreneurs and policymakers. These engagements helped to advance Africa’s blue economy.

The workshops included the Municipality’s Blue Finance workshop, Artificial Intelligence for Good initiatives, and the UNDP + AUC Accelerator Programme Validation.

‘’The Ocean Innovation Africa Summit is one of the City Manager’s flagship programmes. Our biggest asset is our ocean, and our residents must benefit from this dialogue,’’ said Takalani Rathiyaya from the Economic Development Directorate.

At the conclusion of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit the eThekwini Municipality has reaffirmed its ambition to transform its 100km coastline into a globally competitive hub for sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Delegates of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit continued to ride the wave of inspiration. From breakthrough technologies to sustainable solutions, the tide is turning for Africa's oceans. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’Our mission is clear: to integrate economic growth with climate resilience,’’ said Nomalanga Sokhela, Programme Manager for Maritime Industry Development.

Environmental sustainability remains at the core of the City’s vision.

The Municipality is also advancing maritime tourism through cruise ship development and waterfront regeneration to ensure broader economic participation.

With the newly established Blue Economy Forum, eThekwini will coordinate efforts with Transnet, national government, and academic institutions to drive data-led evidence-based decision-making.

The Municipality called on all stakeholders to partner in shaping a resilient, inclusive and prosperous ocean economy.

One hundred youth to gain hands-on skills

 

One hundred youth to gain hands-on skills

SANE SHANDU

ETHEKWINI Municipality is taking bold steps to equip local youth with practical, life-changing skills. On 5 March, 100 unemployed young people from Ntuzuma and surrounding areas enrolled in a three-month vocational training programme through the eThekwini Municipal Academy.

One hundred young people have enrolled in a three-month vocational training programme where they  will be equipped with practical skills to find employment. | Photo: Supplied. 

The training spans plumbing, electricity, bricklaying, and tiling, linked to ongoing construction projects including Ntuzuma Mall, Nozaza Node Hub, housing developments, and other community upgrades.

Participants will gain hands-on experience and, upon completion, transition directly into roles on these projects, turning skills development into real employment and enterprise opportunities.

Ward 42 Councillor Fisokuhle Mngadi praised the initiative. ‘’This programme ensures young people can access local opportunities instead of labour being brought in from outside. It is a practical step towards building local capacity and uplifting the community.’’

The programme strengthens local maintenance capacity, accelerates service delivery, and keeps economic benefits circulating within the community.

Participant Nokwanda Mazibuko, a young woman entering the male-dominated trade of tiling, described the programme as ‘’life-changing.’’ ‘’This programme is giving me a real skill and a future. It has also afforded me a chance to uplift my family and my community.’’

Mayor fast-tracks housing for displaced flood victims

 

Mayor fast-tracks housing for displaced flood victims

METRO REPORTER

ETHEKWINI Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba has expressed confidence in the City’s plan to provide decent housing for flood victims.

This follows his oversight visit to Montclair Lodge on 5 March, to assess progress of the refurbishment of the facility, which will temporarily accommodate disaster victims.

The project is being implemented jointly by eThekwini Municipality, as well as the provincial and national government. Mayor Xaba said he was satisfied with the progress made in refurbishing the first 272 units. In total, the project will deliver 500 units.

‘’The completion of this project is crucial, as it will provide government with its own facility to accommodate disaster victims instead of relying on privately-owned facilities. Each time we have disasters, we will know where to take victims to while awaiting permanent housing,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

The refurbishment project is expected to be completed by June this year. The first occupants of the lodge will be flood victims currently accommodated in temporary emergency accommodation. They will be housed there temporarily while awaiting the completion of permanent houses in the Cornubia Housing Project.

The Mayor last month visited the Cornubia Housing Project to assess progress of the construction of permanent housing for flood victims.

Already, 113 houses are nearing completion. The total yield of the project is 1 200 units, which will be able to accommodate all flood victims currently in temporary emergency accommodation.

Boost for City tourism following statue unveiling

 

Boost for City tourism 

following statue unveiling

GUGU MDLALOSE

TWO landmark statues that were recently unveiled have added a boost to the City’s tourism offerings.

The statues of two struggle icons, Nelson Mandela and former ANC President Oliver Tambo, were unveiled by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 3 March.

The event was marked with traditional dancing and vibrant displays of culture, with the unveiling described by President Ramaphosa as ‘’historic’’.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the sites and engage with the stories of the two stalwarts whose leadership shaped the nation.

At each statue site there is extensive history about the leader which visitors can download using a QR code to access more information.

President Ramaphosa said eThekwini Municipality has bestowed this honour on two icons in recognition of their contribution towards the struggle for freedom, social justice, and the empowerment of people.

‘’Monuments of this nature are important for preserving our history and heritage,’’ he said.

The location of each statue is significant. The Mandela statue is in the Moses Mabhida precinct near the Kings Park Stadium. Soon after his release from prison in 1990 Mandela addressed his first large mass rally in Durban at the Kings Park Stadium. The rally drew more than 200 000 people.

In the same vein, the towering statue of Oliver Tambo on the beachfront is a reminder of his journey across oceans convincing the world about the importance of breaking down the walls of apartheid.

President Ramaphosa also touched on the impact the statues will have on tourism in the City saying:

‘’We can anticipate that these statues will contribute to exceptional growth in tourism in eThekwini.’’

Cementing the City’s status as an events and sporting capital, he said eThekwini will be the venue for the 46^th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community taking place in August.

‘’This is a worthy recognition of the progress that has been made together with all social partners in restoring confidence in the City.’’

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Xaba said the statues will inspire present and future generations to learn more about the contributions these struggle icons made in building a democratic South Africa.

Speaking on other monuments in the City, Mayor Xaba said the Indentured Workers Monument, commissioned in partnership with the provincial government, was unveiled in November last year at South Beach.

It commemorated 165 years since the arrival of the first indentured Indian workers in KwaZulu-Natal.

‘’We are also engaging the Embassy of Portugal regarding the relocation of the statue of Portuguese poet, Fernando Pessoa, from the city centre to the Durban Botanic Gardens. These monuments form part of our broader strategy to expand tourism infrastructure and enhance tourism offerings,’’ he concluded.