Determined to improve the long-term sustainability of Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMME’s) in eThekwini, the Municipality is all set to host the South Regional Business Fair at KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre taxi rank from 23 to 25 June.
This business exhibition will kick-off with the unveiling of the Municipality’s multi-million rand investment within the KwaMnyandu node aimed at boosting the local economic status which is 14 trading kiosks and the pedestrian bridge designed to create an easy and safe access to the mall.
The fair, which will boost sales and advertising of over 120 local exhibitors’ products, will run parallel with a two-day Business Indaba. The fair has attracted government ministers to highlight opportunities on infrastructure development and other business opportunities within their portfolio.
These include Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba, Public Works Minister, Nathi Nhleko and Minister of Communications, Ayanda Dlodlo who will bring information and communication technology entities as well as broadcasting digital migration stakeholders.
Mayor Zandile Gumede said youth entrepreneurship will take centre stage during the fair and the City has invited successful young entrepreneur Calvin Mathibeli who was recently listed among the top 30 most promising young entrepreneurs in Africa by Forbes. Mathibeli is expected to provide guidelines of owning a successful business at such a young age.
Mayor Gumede said the City is doing everything possible to provide a foundation for local youth to flourish. “In partnership with National Youth Development Agency, we will host a Start-up and Go Youth seminar within the fair targeting youth in business, high school learners and unemployed graduates. This will arm the youth with key information when starting a business and how to be innovative. During the second day, they will be given a chance to pitch their start-up business ideas to a group of key business personalities and sponsors,” added Mayor Gumede.
Mayor Gumede urged the public to attend the fair as it will be packed with insightful activities such as business master classes.
Other activities includes arts business master class, cooking exhibition by experienced chefs for those in the culinary sector and fashion pavilion.
“The Regional Business Fair is a result of the City’s plans of achieving long-term accelerated economic growth to reduce unemployment and inequality and to promote inclusive growth,” said Mayor Gumede.
Mayor Gumede further stated that SMMEs hold the key to unlocking local economic development. “Therefore it is vital for government to present such platforms to build a solid foundation for SMMEs to thrive.”
The public and members of the media are encouraged to attend this business empowerment platform. Details are as follows:
- DATE : 23 to 25 June
- TIME : 8am to 5pm
- VENUE : KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre taxi rank
For more information For more information call 031 311 4500 or join the conversation on facebook and twitter @DBNBusinessFair
