KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for deeper collaboration between government and Black business.
Ntuli made the call at the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the National Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC) held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on Friday.
The event reflected on six decades of dedicated work toward the economic empowerment of African businesses and ongoing economic transformation.
In his address, the Premier hailed the organisation’s historic and ongoing role in empowering Black entrepreneurs and advancing inclusive economic transformation across South Africa.
“For over six decades, NAFCOC has been the enduring voice of Black business, even during the darkest days of apartheid. Today, we recognise the many men and women who, with NAFCOC’s support, have broken through barriers, and now play influential roles across both public and private sectors,” Ntuli said.
The high profile event was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, national and provincial government leaders, business stakeholders, and NAFCOC executives.
Ntuli described the NAFCOC Diamond Jubilee as “a celebration of resilience, vision and the power of unity”.
He congratulated the organisation and called for continued joint action in building an inclusive and prosperous KwaZulu-Natal.
The Premier used the occasion to reflect on NAFCOC’s legacy, while looking forward to a new era of economic partnership and shared growth.
Ntuli outlined a bold five-year plan for the province, focused on rebuilding the economy; strengthening governance; advancing sustainable development; improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure; promoting community safety; mitigating climate change, and building a capable and ethical State.
Ntuli invited NAFCOC to be a central partner in driving this agenda.
“We cannot succeed without business playing its part. Our job as government is to clear bottlenecks and unlock opportunities, particularly in the township and rural economies, which are critical to achieving true economic freedom,” Ntuli said.
Ntuli also announced a renewed push to attract investment and accelerate industrialisation through the Special Economic Zones in Richards Bay and at the Dube Trade Port.
He said a revised Provincial Integrated Trade and Investment Strategy will guide this work, alongside stronger air connectivity and expanded tourism and export markets.
The Premier also commended recent efforts by the South African Police Service, led by Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to clamp down on organised crime.
“A safe province is essential for a thriving economy,” he said, pledging an improved coordination between law enforcement and business stakeholders.
The celebration also included a keynote memorial lecture in honour of NAFCOC founding leader Dr Sam Motsuenyane, delivered by African National Congress Treasurer General, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa. – SAnews.gov.za
