Multi-million rand investments in the pipeline and addressing criminals that threaten development projects were among the issues unpacked at a meeting of local industry heavyweights in Richards Bay on Friday.
This discussion was hosted by the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI), bringing together executives from RBIDZ, Transnet, Foskor, Mondi, Richards Bay Coal Terminals and Hillside Aluminium, among others. It was also attended by uMhlathuze Mayor Xolani Ngwezi who, although applauded the aggressive attraction of domestic and foreign investments to the City of uMhlathuze, warned against ‘leaving communities behind’.
He said part of ensuring the local economy thrives, is upskilling people within local communities for them to access the various opportunities the pending investments will bring.
The mayor further cautioned businesses against ‘enabling’ criminal elements and the so-called ‘construction mafia’ by giving in to their unrealistic demands.
He said while engagements are necessary, 'businesses must not submit to criminal elements'.
“We must never be soft on crime. The day we do that means we would have surrendered the power of the State to these forces and that is going to collapse our economy,” he said.
He commended the ongoing efforts of the local police in combatting crime, applauding district police commissioner Major General Sipho Ngubane who was also in attendance.
“If we do not safeguard the investments we currently have, we must forget about the R140-billion investments. Those investors will not sign contracts with the RBIDZ to come to Richards Bay without the area being safe,” said Ngwezi.
Sharing similar sentiments, RBIDZ Chief Operations Officer- Muzi Shange said there is a need to hold further engagements with all stakeholders, including business forums, to map a way forward on creating an enabling environment for investment.
He also highlighted the potential of local beneficiation, efforts to grow employment opportunities and develop skills.
“We must create a clear platform for the unemployed to align expertise with what is required by investors,” said Shange.
“We would be irresponsible as leaders to bring all these investments, and the people who look to us to provide access to these opportunities being left out as we would have seen with some previous investments,” he said.
The breakfast, sponsored by Investec, also featured presentations on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal being developed at the Port of Richards Bay, an update from Major General Ngubane on the crime interventions being undertaken within the district, as well as the KZN Growth Coalition.
