Mayor hosts breakfast

Executive Mayor of Gert Sibande District Municipality Mr Muzi Chirwa hosted a business breakfast at the Mayoral Parlour in Ermelo on Monday.

The purpose of the breakfast attended by various business people and representatives of mines and some state-owned entities was to introduce the newly elected councillors and to establish a healthy working relationship with the business community.

In his address, Mr Chirwa said the economy in the district is growing at a slow rate and jobs are shed at a high rate, thus requiring collective responsibility and the joining of hands in turning the situation around.

“There is a huge decline in the mining sector and the agricultural sector is hard hit by the drought that threatens to reverse our gains in the areas of water provision and agricultural production,” said Mr Chirwa.

He added that the municipality would work hard to contribute towards the economy of the district. He also highlighted the important role the business community could play in assisting them and rendering quality service to the people.

“Not only do we want to establish sustainable relationships with the business and media community, but we also want to share our vision and approach to service delivery, economic development and welcome participation from our stakeholders in how we can take the municipality forward,” explained Mr Chirwa.

Mr Chirwa said they would place emphasis on the revitalisation of township economy and accelerate provision of service delivery.

The Executive Mayor promised that his administration would work towards dealing with the five challenges perceived by households in the district, namely the lack of safe and reliable water supply, lack of or inadequate employment opportunities, inadequate roads, cost of electricity and water.

The Mayor invited established businesses to open their doors to training and monitoring young entrepreneurs who would later have a meaningful contribution to make towards the district economy.