In a dynamic push to revitalize KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has launched an ambitious plan aimed at reversing the province’s economic decline and addressing its escalating unemployment and poverty issues. On Thursday, Ntuli hosted a high-profile breakfast with influential business leaders at the Coastlands Hotel in uMhlanga, following his inaugural State of the Province Address (SOPA) last week.
Reflecting on his tenure since taking office in June 2024, Ntuli shared his vision for transforming KZN into a business-friendly hub, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments, policy certainty, and bolstered safety and security. KZN, which is the second-largest contributor to South Africa’s GDP, is positioned as a key player for industrial growth and international commerce in the coming years.
“We are committed to creating a conducive environment where businesses thrive and industries expand. By focusing on infrastructure, investment, and strategic international engagement, KwaZulu-Natal is ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy,” Ntuli told the gathered audience, which included prominent business figures and influential personalities.
The Premier also underscored KZN’s alignment with the national Medium-Term Development Plan, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which focuses on inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and job creation. Ntuli revealed that KZN had identified eight key priorities for its growth agenda, which include rebuilding the economy, strengthening local governance, enhancing healthcare and education, and improving infrastructure.
One of the most pressing challenges, Ntuli highlighted, is climate change. KZN’s recent devastating floods, which claimed seven lives and left many homeless, are a stark reminder of the need for urgent action. In his address, Ntuli stressed that climate resilience would play a critical role in the province’s future planning.
On economic growth, Ntuli outlined plans to enhance KZN’s competitiveness by strengthening bilateral trade corridors, boosting Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and focusing on high-growth sectors such as green energy, manufacturing, and localisation. He also detailed the province’s commitment to accelerating investments in infrastructure, including roads, rail, water, and energy, with an emphasis on improving air connectivity. Notably, the introduction of Air Botswana flights to Windhoek and Gaborone was highlighted as a significant boost for global trade and tourism.
“Safety and security are paramount to creating a stable business environment,” Ntuli affirmed, noting the province’s partnership with law enforcement to establish safer commercial zones. He also provided an update on the R85.2 billion in investment commitments made during the KZN Investment Conference in November 2024. These investments are expected to generate over 82,000 permanent jobs once operational, spanning key sectors such as property development, tourism, logistics, and green energy.
While progress has been made, Premier Ntuli acknowledged ongoing challenges and emphasized the need for continued government intervention to remove obstacles and accelerate the implementation of these crucial projects.
Looking ahead, Ntuli reiterated KZN’s commitment to strengthening its international business relationships and attracting foreign direct investment. He emphasized the need for a robust strategy to address climate change, disaster relief, and social stability to ensure that KZN remains a competitive and thriving province.
Business leaders, including Moses Tembe and Ebrahim Patel, attended the event and expressed their support for Ntuli’s vision. Patel, the chair of the Trade and Investment Committee at the Minara Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of a clear roadmap for the province’s growth, focusing on safety, infrastructure, service delivery, and healthcare.
As KZN navigates its path to recovery, Premier Ntuli’s vision offers hope for a prosperous and resilient future, even in the face of substantial challenges.
