Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube warned delegates about the implications water infrastructure vandalism may have on the economy of the South Coast if continued.
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Although the MEC could not make it to the Ugu growth and development strategy summit held at Desroches Hotel last Thursday, her speech was read out by Ugu mayor Mondli Chiliza during the summit.
In her speech the MEC said the South Coast contributes a large percentage to the economy of the province and has the potential to attract more investors.
“The South Coast boasts seven Blue Flag beaches and is known for producing macadamia nuts, bananas and sugar cane, as well as for fishing and tourist attractions such as the Oribi Gorge.”
However, the MEC said if the trend in water supply interruption continued this would drive away investors and the South Coast would cease to be a tourist hub if local government failed to provide a basic need such as water.
“If we are serious about local economic development, then we cannot tolerate vandalism of water infrastructure.”
The MEC urged delegates to focus not only on service delivery but also on economic growth of the Ugu district.
“Unless we sharpen our strategies, our economy will not do well.”
South Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman, Vijay Naidoo, made a presentation on red tape, constraints and ease in doing business within the district, while other speakers focused on trade and investment opportunities, a provincial infrastructure master plan and state of the economy among other topics.
Discussions were also held by delegates during the commissions where delegates were expected to report back from commissions to allow for resolutions to be taken before the summit was closed.
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