KwaZulu-Natal must strengthen partnerships with business to rebuild financial stability and restore investor confidence, finance MEC Francois Rodgers told leaders at a Zimbali breakfast.

Rodgers was speaking during a post-budget business breakfast at The Capital Zimbali Resort last Thursday, where he outlined government’s financial recovery plan and economic outlook.

He said KZN is moving from recovery to renewal, supported by stricter financial discipline and improved governance.

“This is not rhetoric. It is a direction grounded in evidence and discipline,” said Rodgers.

According to Rodgers, the recovery plan aims to stabilise public finances, strengthen oversight and rebuild confidence among investors, suppliers and citizens.

“The basics of public finance are being restored, creating a province that is more predictable, credible and investable,” he said.

The provincial budget for the 2026/27 financial year stands at R168.2-billion, including R136-billion from national allocations and R27.3-billion in conditional grants.

However, Rodgers warned that years of national budget cuts and policy changes have placed provinces under growing financial pressure.

“If we don’t change the way we do business, we will have no business,” he said.

Rodgers also cautioned that global risks could affect the province’s economy. Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could push up oil prices, increase transport costs and disrupt trade routes linked to the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay.

He added that foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks remain a serious threat to the agricultural sector.

Rodgers stressed that government cannot create jobs alone, but must create conditions that allow businesses to invest and grow.

To improve transparency, an electronic procurement system will be introduced on April 1 to reduce corruption and interference in government tenders.

iLembe Chamber of Commerce CEO Cobus Oelofse said investors consider factors such as reliable infrastructure, efficient planning approvals, strong municipal governance and lower costs of doing business.

He added that strengthening the local economy must include the Isithebe Industrial Estate, which accounts for about 45% of manufacturing activity in the district.

“Any discussion on strengthening the local economy cannot ignore Isithebe,” he said.

Oelofse also welcomed initiatives by KwaDukuza municipality to revitalise the KwaDukuza CBD and upgrade infrastructure in key industrial areas.

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