The iLembe Chamber of Commerce has extended its physical footprint, last week launching new offices within the KwaDukuza CBD.

In line with the Chamber’s commitment to assist businesses across the iLembe district, a physical presence is hoped to increase the level to which support can be provided within the town of KwaDukuza and the area at large.

“We have always been representative of KwaDukuza business but are glad to have taken the step to be geographically representative too. Unique communities need unique management and we are confident that a physical presence will deepen our relationship with this community,” said Chamber CEO, Cobus Oelofse.

The new branch will be overseen by Haroon Mahomedy, a respected member of the KwaDukuza community with previous experience in rallying business in the area.

His primary focus will be to engage with relevant stakeholders to tackle growing security concerns, infrastructure maintenance and urban decay.

“I have had the privilege of being involved in many organisations in KwaDukuza, but there has been no unifying body to tackle issues of crime, drugs and security at large in our area. We believe business needs to unite to affect this change,” said Mahomedy.

Ideally, this would take the form of a focused crime prevention initiative with the buy-in of business owners, landlords, Saps, private security and the municipality. With a safe business district in place, it is hoped that external investment as well as local entrepreneurship would have an area in which to thrive.

Adding to that as a future goal for the chamber is the possibility of a special rates area as evident in Ballito, Umhlanga and Florida Road Urban Improvement Precincts.

“This would be a fantastic addition to KwaDukuza, but we are also well aware of how long these things can take to come to fruition. A unified initiative against crime would be a great place to start,” said Chamber executive committee member, Shain Manjoo.

KwaDukuza is, of course, also significant as the seat of governmental power in both the KwaDukuza and iLembe municipalities.

With the new branch on King Shaka Street just a hundred metres away from the KwaDukuza municipal offices, there is increased scope for chamber representation in municipal portfolio meetings.

If you would like to get in touch with the KwaDukuza branch of the chamber, call 087 354 6343.

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