The Municipal Employment Initiative (MEI) project, led by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs,has today, 11 October 2024 provided essential equipment to 62 small business owners from Richards Bay and Empangeni. The Mayor of the City of Umhlathuze, Cllr Xolani Ngwezi, led the official handover ceremonywhich was held at the Empangeni Civic Hall in ward 23.

The primary goal of the project is to implement a municipal initiative where the municipality identifies, evaluates, funds, and supports small enterprises in their areas of jurisdiction through a fair and transparent process. This is aimed at creating job opportunities and stimulating local economic development within the economic sector, targeting vulnerable groups in rural and township areas.

The beneficiaries of this initiative represent a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, catering, hospitality, landscaping services, clothing and textile, bakery, and laundry services.

Mr. Thabani Zulu, the Chief Executive Officer for the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone, delivered a message of support on behalf of the MEC for KZN EDTEA, Rev. Musa Zondi. He provided a brief background of the MEI and emphasised that informal traders remain a priority for the Department, as they play a significant role in the economic growth of the province. "The Department remains committed to fostering local economic development, creating jobs, and supporting small businesses in the province," said Mr Zulu.

Mayor Ngwezi expressed his gratitude to the Department for spearheading initiatives that contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic growth. He further encouraged the beneficiaries to collaborate and support each other in establishing a sustainable business value chain in the city of uMhlathuze.