KWAZULU-NZATAL WORKING TOGETHER TO TAKE SOUTH AFRICA FORWARD
It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Portfolio 2012. This comprehensive publication is a celebration of KwaZulu-Natal, which embraces the natural beauty of the landscape, the impressive infrastructure, its economic achievements and business success stories.
The year 2012 is of special significance in South Africa and in Africa, as the oldest liberation movement, the African National Congress celebrates its centenary. The ANC was formed in 1912 to unite the African people and spearhead the struggle for fundamental political, social and economic change. People in all corners of the globe acknowledge that a large part of that rich heritage has its roots in KwaZulu-Natal. Not only did this Province produce Dr John Langalibalele Dube, the first President of the ANC, it also gave our heroic struggle Pixley ka-Isaka Seme, Josiah Gumede, Albert Luthuli and Jacob Zuma amongst the many heroes who have led the liberation struggle.
KwaZulu-Natal continues to lead the way though its undoubtedly vast economic potential. The provincial government is committed to ensuring that this province becomes the leading economy in this country and in the southern African region in general. All plans translate into an urgency to meet the basic needs of the people, reduce poverty substantially, and provide work opportunities to all.
Our vision for the future is that of KwaZulu-Natal as a gateway to southern Africa; a place where international shipping converges on Durban and Richards Bay; where international airfreight uses the Dube TradePort as a jumping-off point for Africa; where domestic and international tourists arrive regularly and in increased numbers; and from which cut flowers and other agricultural niche products are flown daily to overseas markets.
A number of flagship projects are also underway in the Province to ensure that the province remains strong in logistics in the future. These include the development plans for the Durban Port including the dug-out port, improvements to Richards Bay Port and the development of the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone, as well as road and rail infrustructure programmes.
Economic growth requires a united and collective effort by all role-players and stakeholders in this province. In order to grow we must establish provincial, national, continental and global partnerships and invite all interested parties to once more participate in our success.
The Honourable Premier of the KwaZulu-Natal Province
Dr Zweli Mkhize
