The RBIDZ and the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs hosted an oversight visit that was conducted by the Portfolio Committee on the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the DTIC). The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the progress made by RBIDZ in promoting economic growth and regional development.
During the visit, KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Rev. M. Zondi, conducted a site inspection to assess the current phase of development within RBIDZ. Rev. Zondi expressed satisfaction with the advancements achieved, emphasizing the significant transformation of the area since his last visit. You can catch him here: https://fb.watch/yKj83IOLWU/
“The cooperation observed not only within the Richards Bay area but also during the meeting with the National Parliament Committee shows the government’s commitment to collaborative efforts. We appreciate the contributions of private stakeholders in driving project development and implementation. These initiatives will generate employment opportunities and training programs for the local community,” said Rev. Zondi.
Mr. M.C. Masina, Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry, and Competition, also expressed satisfaction with the progress made by RBIDZ. He emphasized the importance of oversight visits, stating that while committees rely on reports, they have decided to conduct site visits to verify the claims made. You can listen to his interview here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1C6d7mc3jT/
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition has invested over R1.1 billion in the Industrial Development Zone (IDZ), with over R952 million already disbursed to support infrastructure development and attract businesses. Mr. Masina commended the efforts made to secure reputable investors and acknowledged the visible progress on the ground. He also highlighted the potential of RBIDZ in creating sustainable job opportunities for the local community.
RBIDZ Board Member, Mr. E. Mbatha, underscored the achievements of RBIDZ in community development. He noted that the IDZ provides bursaries for students, internship programs, and support for farming communities through the provision of essential facilities and services. Additionally, RBIDZ actively supports food producers and women-owned businesses by offering training and business opportunities. Emerging enterprises also benefit from IDZ funding, contributing to broader economic empowerment.https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DrfRg2PfE/
The oversight visit reaffirmed RBIDZ’s role in driving regional development and fostering economic opportunities in Richards Bay and its surrounding areas. The continued collaboration between government, private stakeholders, and the local community is expected to further accelerate economic growth and sustainable job creation in the region.
