The eThekwini Municipality is ensuring that the festive season benefits not only tourists but also local businesses, with a special focus on spaza shops. Mayor Cllr Cyril Xaba addressed the media on Durban’s thriving festive season economy and the municipality’s initiatives to support small businesses.
Mayor Xaba highlighted the bustling holiday activity, revealing that during the Reconciliation Day weekend alone, Durban welcomed 113,000 visitors, generating R1.145 billion in GDP contributions. He emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring every sector reaps the rewards of this economic surge.
“Spaza shops are a cornerstone of our local economy, and we recognize their potential to contribute significantly to our city’s growth. By regulating and supporting these businesses, we aim to create a sustainable environment for them to thrive,” said Xaba.
Spaza Shop Registration Extended
Acknowledging the challenges faced by spaza shop operators, Xaba announced the extension of the registration deadline to 28 February 2025. This initiative, launched after the national government’s call for stricter food safety measures, seeks to bring all spaza shops into a regulated framework.
“To date, 3,250 applications have been received, and they are undergoing thorough vetting processes involving departments such as Environmental Health, Home Affairs, and the Building Inspectorate,” Xaba stated. He encouraged operators to register, highlighting the benefits of compliance, including access to government funding and other support.
Festive Season Outlook
The mayor also praised Durban’s tourism success, noting a hotel occupancy rate of 72% and significant spending by overnight visitors. Signature events like “Anywhere in the City” and the rugby match between the Sharks and Vodacom Bulls are set to draw even larger crowds.
As the festive season progresses, the city is focused on maintaining safety and cleanliness. “We urge everyone to adhere to the rules, whether it’s at the beaches or on the roads. Together, we can ensure a safe and memorable festive period for all,” concluded Xaba.
With spaza shops playing a vital role in local communities, the eThekwini Municipality’s efforts to support and regulate them reflect its commitment to inclusive economic development this holiday season.