KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa – June 25, 2024: The newly-appointed MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa. K Zondi, today announced the creation of new entities and their leadership teams following a significant rationalisation process. This strategic initiative aims to streamline operations, enhance service delivery, eliminate duplications, and create efficiencies within the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).

As part of the national programme to rationalise public entities, four public entities have been merged into two new entities. This move is expected to improve the delivery of services in a cost-effective manner and foster economic growth within the province. The legislative framework for these changes was approved by the legislature in the sixth administration and publicised in the government gazette on May 24, 2024.

Entity 1: The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Regulatory Authority (KZNERA) Formed through the merger of the KZN Liquor Authority and KZN Gaming and Betting Board, KZNERA will regulate and empower the gambling and liquor industries in KwaZulu-Natal.

• Chairperson: Ms Mbali Myeni
• Interim CEO: Ms Portia Baloyi

Entity 2: KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) KZNTAFA results from the merger of KZN Tourism and the KZN Film Commission. The entity will focus on marketing and promoting the tourism and audio-visual industries, facilitating sector development, creating sustainable growth and job opportunities, and addressing historical imbalances in infrastructure, skills, and resource distribution.

• Chairperson: Prof. Thandi Nzama
• Interim CEO: Mr Sibusiso Gumbi

Entity 3: KwaZulu-Natal Growth Fund Agency (KZNGFA) This funding agency’s Act has been approved for listing under the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). KZNGFA aims to support sustainable growth by financing private sector projects that drive economic success, stimulate job creation, provide broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE), and reduce inequality.

• Chairperson: Dr Cassius Lubisi
• Interim CEO: Ms Tshidi Ikaneng

Entity 4: Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) The institute’s Act has also been approved for PFMA listing. MKRI will conduct economic research, promote innovation, and coordinate training and development interventions tailored to the needs of the provincial economy.

• Chairperson: Mr Thinta Cibane
• CEO: Dr Thandeka Ellenson
• Acting CEO: Advocate Thembelihle Mapipa

“These appointments mark a significant step in the establishment and operationalisation of these entities, aimed at fostering economic growth, regulatory oversight, research advancement, and tourism development within KwaZulu-Natal. Each appointee brings a wealth of expertise and leadership, positioning these entities for success in their respective fields. We look forward to their strategic guidance and contributions as we embark on this journey of growth and prosperity,” said MEC Zondi.

The KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs extends its congratulations to the newly appointed Board Chairpersons and CEOs and anticipates their leadership will guide these merged entities towards greater success and sustainability.

ENDS

ISSUED BY THE KZN DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TOURISM AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

For further information, please contact:
Angel Mkhethie Sibisi | 067 415 8402