The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) recently hosted a spirited staff engagement session, marking a momentous occasion of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to excellence.
The event was attended by Board Members Mr. Elphas Mbatha and Mr. Sizwe Mchunu representing all Board Members, who joined employees in celebrating the organisation’s achievements, including its clean audit outcome for the 2024/25 financial year, awarded by the Auditor-General, SA. This marks the 6th consecutive year of clean audit outcome for RBIDZ, a milestone hailed by both internal leadership and provincial authorities.
RBIDZ CEO, Mr. Thabane Zulu, addressed staff with a message of gratitude and pride. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and professionalism of our team. It reflects our commitment to good governance and the responsible use of public resources,” he said.
RBIDZ Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Simangele Mvelase, echoed the sentiment, attributing the success to strong collaboration across departments. “Our clean audit achievement is the result of every staff member upholding internal controls and compliance,” she noted.
The clean audit outcome was recently commended by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thami Ntuli and the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA)- Rev. Musa Zondi during a provincial session recognizing high-performing entities. The Auditor-General also awarded RBIDZ with a Clean Audit Achievement Award, further affirming its leadership in sound financial management.
Mr. Zulu shared his personal pride in receiving the award, describing the moment as “deeply humbling and energizing.” He emphasized the importance of financial accountability, especially in a constrained fiscal environment. “We must continue to ensure that every rand is spent wisely. Our mandate demands integrity and impact,” he said.
Beyond financial accolades, the CEO highlighted progress on the ground and most notably the Wilmar investment project, which is nearing completion and expected to be commissioned in November. “Wilmar’s operationalisation will be a breakthrough for the socio-economic landscape of our region,” he said, citing job creation and industrial growth as key outcomes.
The engagement also honoured long-serving employees, with awards presented to those who have served 15, 10, and 5 years respectively. Their dedication was met with warm applause and appreciation.
In a gesture of empowerment, RBIDZ also awarded SAQA certified certificates to 47 cooperative beneficiaries of its agricultural development programme, who were trained in farming-related skills being Plant Production Skills Systems, Mixed Farming Systems, and Introduction to Agriculture Business Development and Management Skills respectively. The certificates were presented by Mr. Elphas Mbatha, a Board Member and Chairperson of the Social and Ethics Committee who highlighted that the initiative is a reflection of RBIDZ’s commitment to inclusive growth and community upliftment.
Board Members commended the leadership and staff for their consistent delivery and impact. “RBIDZ continues to demonstrate what excellence in public service looks like,” said Mr. Mchunu.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Zulu encouraged employees to maintain their high delivery standards and professionalism. He also invoked the spirit of Spring Season ahead of summer, calling it a season of “rebirth, revitalization, and renewed energy,” and urged staff to embrace the new season with purpose and passion.
The atmosphere was one of pride, unity, and motivation; it was also a true celebration of RBIDZ concerted efforts.