Maritime Industry Development Programme
The Economic Development and Planning Committee of eThekwini/Durban approved a report to continue support and funding to the to the Maritime Industry Development Programme through the eThekwini Maritime Cluster.
This requires the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the next three years.
This initiative emphasises the strategic importance of the ocean economy, particularly through the Port of Durban, which handles 65 percent of South Africa’s container volume and is a crucial hub for trade across KwaZulu-Natal and Africa.
Maritime transport supports key economic sectors like manufacturing and logistics in Durban. Recognising its potential, the city’s Integrated Development Plan prioritises maritime development to improve connectivity, boost the local economy, and create jobs.
To advance this vision, a three-year MOU will be executed with a total funding allocation of R12.18-million (excluding VAT).
This collaboration seeks to position Durban as a Smart Coastal Port City Region, aligning with national strategies for sustainable oceans economy growth and regional development.
eThekwini Spatial Development Framework 2025/26
The Economic Development and Planning Committee approved the review of the draft Spatial Development Framework (SDF) for the 2025/26 financial year.
eThekwini Municipality’s SDF 2025/26 serves as the City’s primary spatial planning tool, designed to guide land use, infrastructure investment, and sustainable development.
As a legislative requirement under the Municipal Systems Act and the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, the SDF provides a long-term vision for spatial transformation, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
It addresses historical spatial imbalances and promotes inclusive development by identifying priority areas for investment and growth, including urban densification, rural development, and environmental conservation.
The SDF is closely aligned with the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan and budget priorities. It informs infrastructure development by identifying key projects and spatial priorities that support the City’s strategic goals.
For the 2025/26 review, the SDF integrates updated population projections, revised mapping, and sector-specific plans, ensuring alignment with national and provincial frameworks. It also incorporates feedback from extensive public and stakeholder consultations, including traditional councils, ward committees, and provincial departments, reinforcing its role as a participatory and inclusive planning instrument.
Importantly, the SDF supports eThekwini Municipality’s District Development Model by fostering intergovernmental coordination and aligning spatial planning with service delivery. It includes a five-year Spatial Development Plan that links directly to the City Infrastructure Delivery and Management System, ensuring that capital investment is strategically directed.
This integration ensures that infrastructure projects—such as roads, housing, and utilities—are implemented in areas where they will have the greatest socio-economic impact.
In conclusion, the SDF is not just a technical document but a transformative tool that shapes how eThekwini grows and evolves. By aligning spatial planning with budgetary priorities and community needs, it ensures that development is equitable, efficient, and environmentally responsible.
As the City prepares for future growth, the SDF will remain central to guiding decisions that affect land use, infrastructure, and the quality of life for all residents.
Please note, all decisions taken by the Economic Development and Planning Committee are subject to final approval by Full Council.
Maritime industry investment
Invest Durban delivers a world-class Metro based investor support service, encompassing investment marketing & promotion, plus investment facilitation and retention activities.
Contact the investment facilitation team today to discuss your objectives and discover excellent opportunities for companies operating in the maritime industry to do business or invest in Durban:
