The launch of the Invest Durban strategy

DURBAN – The launch of the Invest Durban strategy took place on Friday at the Durban ICC. The event took place less than a week after President Jacob Zuma launched the Invest SA One Stop Shop here in Durban.

 Dignitaries, members of the eThekwini Municipality and people from the business industry were present at the launch. The mayor of eThekwini Zandile Gumede kicked off the speeches for the launch. She was followed by the World Bank’s George Bennet and Acting Deputy City Manager, Phillip Sithole.

 Following this was a panel discussion that was facilitated by CNBC Africa’s Godfrey Mutizwa. On the panel were:

1. Sipho Nzuza, City Manager of Durban

2. George Bennet, World Bank Group

3. Sherry Zalika Sykes, United States Consul General

4. Musa Makhunga, President: Durban Chamber of Commerce

5. Michael Deighton, Managing Director: Tongaat Hulett Development

 The Mayor of eThekwini Zandile Gumede spoke about Invest Durban saying, “We are of firm view that this meaningful initiative will improve our international business profile and accelerate investment promotion for the benefit for all in Durban.” Gumede said.

 Phillip Sithole said the municipality has partnered with the National Treasury regarding Invest Durban. He also highlighted the importance of cities in contributing to economic growth, “Cities are agents of economic growth”.

 Speaking on the purpose of municipalities like Durban, Bennet said “The municipality is there to provide solutions to the problems and to provide assistance to investors.”