FIRST National Bank's seventh Top Business Portfolio Awards, which were made to a range of companies this week, included for the first time an award for a clean audit by a municipality, which was won by Umtshezi Municipality.
The financial management of the province's municipalities is not good.
According to the auditor-general, only 45 of 61 municipalities received an unqualified audit report in the 2011/2012 financial year, while seven municipal audits even carried disclaimers.
The awards recognise companies and organisations that contribute to the KwaZulu-Natal economy, a spokesperson for First National Bank said yesterday. The awards have become a highlight of the province's business calendar.
Among the 14 winners were Tongaat Hulett for agriculture, Corobrik for mining and quarrying, PFK Electronics for manufacturing, Mr Price for trade, SmartXchange for financial and business services, Gold Circle for recreation, education and social services, Suncoast Casino Hotels and Entertainment for tourism and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Planning Commission for promoting socioeconomic growth.
"We believe through this form of recognition to businesses that are setting high standards, we can motivate other business owners to strive for excellence in the future," First National Bank provincial head Preggie Pillay said in a statement.
The judging criteria included the organisation's contribution to the province's economy, compliance with the 2009 King Report on Corporate Governance, brand and reputation, stakeholder relations, goodwill and social responsibility.
• edward.west@witness.co.za