EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda led the signing of the eThekwini Economic Council’s (EEC) Social Compact at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on 27 May.

 

The Compact is an agreement between business, labour, civil society, academia, and traditional leaders who commit to developing eThekwini as a world class city and reviving the economy by creating sustainable jobs.

 

There are 16 workstreams that comprise the Council and are represented by business, government, and social partners, all who supported the Social Compact.

 

Mayor Kaunda said the signing was a historic occasion for the City. “With all sectors represented signing the Social Compact binds us as a collective to work towards reviving the economy. We carry the hopes of residents and failure, therefore, is not an option,” he said.

 

Deputy President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gladwin Malishe lauded the initiative. “We are pleased the Municipality is heading in this direction by collaborating to find solutions to improve the ailing economy.”

 

Representing the informal economy workstream, Mzandile Mavula said the signing of the Compact reaffirms that the EEC was effective.

 

Mayor Kaunda expressed the need for social partners to work together to develop innovative ways to revive the economy and create jobs, given the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

Proposals emanating from the signing have been presented to the City’s senior management and a process of implementing timeframes for the recommendations has begun.

 

ENDS

 

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For media enquiries contact the Municipality’s Spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220.