Toyota reaffirms long-term investment in eThekwini and KwaZulu-Natal
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Date: 2025-08-13 13:05:30

Toyota reaffirms long-term investment in eThekwini and KwaZulu-Natal

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
 
10 August 2025
 
TOYOTA REAFFIRMS LONG-TERM INVESTMENT IN ETHEKWINI AND KWAZULU-NATAL
 
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its commitment to long-term investment in Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal region. 
 
This was the central theme of a high-level engagement between eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, and TSAM President and CEO, Andrew Kirby, aimed at strengthening collaboration on strategic infrastructure and economic development.
 
The meeting focused on critical enablers for industrial growth, including road upgrades, stable electricity supply, and improvements to water and sanitation infrastructure in the Prospecton Precinct, home to TSAM’s manufacturing operations.
 
Mayor Xaba was joined by City Manager Musa Mbhele, Economic Development Chairperson Councillor Thembo Ntuli, Trading Services Chairperson Councillor Mduduzi Nkosi, and EXCO member Councillor Andre Beetge.
 
To support industrial activity in Prospecton, the municipality is investing over R450 million in road infrastructure projects currently at various stages of implementation. 
 
A major water infrastructure upgrade is also underway, involving the replacement of a 375mm asbestos cement pipeline with a new 400mm steel pipeline, a move expected to significantly improve water supply in the area.
 
In response to flood damage, over R120 million has been allocated to repair and upgrade sewer networks and pump stations. Additionally, the City has invested in refurbishing power substations that service TSAM and surrounding industries.
 
*A Partnership Built on Trust and Shared Growth*
 
Mayor Xaba described TSAM as one of eThekwini’s most significant investors, with a partnership spanning more than five decades.
 
“We are not taking this relationship lightly. That’s why we are committed to accelerating current infrastructure projects by shortening lead times for construction and repair work,” said Mayor Xaba.
 
He further emphasised that the city’s dedicated support team, led by the City Manager, will continue working closely with TSAM to resolve infrastructure challenges and ensure regular progress updates.
 
TSAM President Andrew Kirby echoed the company’s long-standing commitment and
assured the Mayor that they will continue to be part of the solution to grow the city’s economy.
 
“Even after the catastrophic floods, it was never a consideration to leave Durban. The strength of our relationship with the city has always been a key factor,” said Kirby.
 
TSAM contributes R18 billion in national taxes annually, with the municipality collecting over R6 million in rates from the company each year.
 
The municipality has pledged to collaborate with TSAM on strategic initiatives to further promote automotive manufacturing in eThekwini, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub of industrial innovation and resilience.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.