WARD 66 representatives recently attended the eThekwini Municipality’s Local Economic Development (LED) Summit with a new perspective and tangible strategies to stimulate community growth. The summit, held at the Durban International Convention Centre, brought together municipal leaders, researchers, business stakeholders and development practitioners to shape the city’s next phase of inclusive economic development.

Also read: Business workshop looks to shape the youth’s future

Siyanda Dlamini, committee member for skills development and job creation, and Desiree Manuel, member for entrepreneurship and small business support, said the summit was a turning point for local economies.

The summit

Dlamini said the summit aimed at aligning municipal, provincial and national strategies, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that hamper entrepreneurs, while improving support mechanisms for traders, SMMEs, and co-operatives.

“Day one started off with a strategic reflection and a keynote address on “The Blue Economy as a Catalyst for LED” by Kenneth Mabila, senior manager for natural resources and zoo branch. We held discussions centred around integrating youth, women and informal sector enterprises into local development pathways, attracting public-private investment into township and community-based economies and improving skills development to prepare residents for both the existing and future job markets,” said Dlamini.

The second day dealt with implementation mechanisms. Thuli Mkhize, head of LED strategy, presented alignment measures between municipal efforts and the national LED Framework.

Technical workshops discussed digital innovation, township tech adoption and green-transition entrepreneurship by contributors. City Manager Musa Mbhele presented performance monitoring approaches tied to the municipality’s R217b catalytic projects pipeline.

Further presentations focused on scaling of youth and women-led enterprises, informal sector integration and funding reforms.

Potential avenues for Ward 66

Dlamini and Manuel contributed directly to discussions on township entrepreneurship, trader support and job creation.

“We now have a clear path, from blue economy opportunities to digital tools for traders,” said Dlamini. Manuel added, “The mentorship models and enterprise zones will help us launch real projects in Ward 66, starting next quarter.”

Outcomes from the summit are in line with the district development model and eThekwini’s informal economy policy, and it is envisioned that they will ensure a sustainable, inclusive economic growth process at ward, township and rural community levels.

Dlamini said Ward 66 will commence engaging local stakeholders to translate these strategies into concrete, community-focused action.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok