EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, has reaffirmed the city’s commitment to fostering economic growth by working closely with private sector partners and public role players at both provincial and national levels. Speaking at the eThekwini Manufacturing Round Table held on 3 October at the Durban ICC, Mayor Xaba emphasized the city’s role in supporting the manufacturing industry as a key driver of economic development.
“The City will continue to create a conducive environment for business to thrive in eThekwini,” said Mayor Xaba. He assured industry leaders that the municipality would focus on removing obstacles and reducing red tape to encourage investment. “With some of the largest manufacturers in South Africa operating in the municipality and a rich ecosystem of small and medium businesses, the industrial sector offers a significant opportunity for value addition, job creation, and export potential – if we can overcome hurdles to growth.”
The Manufacturing Round Table was convened to assess the impact of the sector on eThekwini’s economy, which Mayor Xaba described as critical. The manufacturing sector currently accounts for more than 176,000 jobs and represents a 16% share of the local economy. Additionally, the city generates 50% of its revenue from its industrial areas, further underscoring the sector’s significance.
Councillor Thembo Ntuli, Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, echoed Xaba’s sentiments, highlighting the potential for the industrial sector to create jobs and boost exports. “The industrial sector offers significant opportunities for value addition, job creation, and export potential,” Ntuli said.
Photo credit: Thuli Dlamini
With a firm focus on collaboration and development, eThekwini Municipality is set to position its manufacturing sector as a cornerstone of future economic growth. The engagement at the Round Table reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient economy.
