EThekwini is poised for massive economic growth from several catalytic projects currently underway, which are progressing well. They are earmarked to create thousands of jobs, boost the Municipality’s rates base, and transform the local spatial footprint.

EThekwini Municipality’s Executive Committee led by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, conducted an oversight visit of the City’s catalytic projects today, 3 February. The tour informed newly elected councillors on some of the major projects being undertaken by the City to ensure it invests in infrastructure, attracts new investment, and remains globally competitive.

The delegation visited numerous flagship projects which are at various stages of development in the central, north, and west of the City. They were also briefed on other flagship projects underway. They visited the Rivertown Precinct and drove through the Durban Film City and Iconic Tower sites in the CBD. In the west, they had an overview of the Ntshongweni, Hammarsdale, Keystone and Midway Crossing developments. They also undertook a tour of the Brickworks, Sibaya, and the Oceans Development in the north.

These large-scale spatial transformation projects are facilitated by the Catalytic Projects Unit and are worth billions of rands. They are being undertaken in partnership with private sector investors and developers.

The investment value of these catalytic projects exceeds R500 million. These projects are mostly based on key national routes and in previously disadvantaged township areas. Fast-tracking their implementation is the biggest programme which the City, business, and other tiers of government can implement to generate revenue and create jobs.

This focus on investment, construction, and infrastructure development is in keeping with national government’s focus on infrastructure and investment development in the 2021 State of the Nation and Budget Speech addresses. It is seen as a key driver of economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Kaunda said the City is open for business and as an economic hub of the province, it was important to create a conducive environment for investors. “Today’s oversight visit aimed to ensure that we expedite development processes to ensure these projects are completed on time. This visit also sought to engage with developers on how locals can benefit from these projects,” he said.

Mayor Kaunda said the City leadership is encouraged that the Keystone Development in Hammarsdale has created over 10 000 jobs, the majority of which are locals.

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit.