The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), in collaboration with the Ndwedwe Local Municipality, today hosted a dynamic Youth Capacity Building Workshop at the Waterfall Community Hall in Ward 3.

Organised by EDTEA’s Environmental Empowerment Management Services and Enterprise Development Unit under iLembe district. The objective was to capacitate Youth on environmental issues and to conserve natural resources, whilst using items such as litter to recycle, plant trees, start vegetable gardens etc to sustain themselves as well as create jobs in the local community. The event equip young aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to establish and manage Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The impacts of waste on natural resources, climate change, water conservation, consumer protection, and education on liquor regulations were among the key topics presented during the workshop.

Attendees gained valuable insights from experts representing:

• KZN EDTEA: Business registration, compliance, and support programmes
• uMngeni-uThukela Water: Water conservation strategies and climate change resilience
• KZN Economic Regulatory Authority (KZNERA): Consumer protection and fair business practices
• Ndwedwe Local Municipality: Licensing requirements, particularly for liquor-related businesses

The workshop formed part of EDTEA’s ongoing commitment to promoting economic inclusion and developing the capacity of youth across KwaZulu-Natal to participate meaningfully in the economy.