ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI HOSTS POST SONA SEMINAR ON NATIONAL REFORM AND LOCAL ECONOMIC GROWTH
Following the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) and the National Budget Speech, the Economic Development Directorate yesterday, 10 March, convened a high-level Economic Outlook Seminar.
Held at the Riverside Hotel, the seminar brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to explore the implications of national economic reforms for local development under the theme: “From National Reform to Local Growth: Implications for eThekwini.”
The event served as an important platform for engagement on key policy priorities and economic developments following the SONA and budget speech.
As the City continues to position itself as a resilient and competitive investment destination, the seminar provided valuable insights into how national fiscal decisions will influence Municipal growth, infrastructure investment, and broader market sentiment.
The Municipality hosted a panel of distinguished speakers who provided expert perspectives on the economic outlook.
Carel Odendaal, Investment Strategist at Old Mutual presented an analysis of the current investment climate.
His presentation highlighted trends in capital allocation and the broader risk outlook, noting that infrastructure reform and national competitiveness remain key drivers of investor confidence.
Complementing this perspective, Azar Jammine, a Visiting Researcher at University of the Witwatersrand shared insights on South Africa’s national growth trajectory.
His address explored the complexities of fiscal consolidation and infrastructure commitments, outlining what these national policy directions mean for the fiscal sustainability and operational capacity of municipalities such as eThekwini.
Afika Ndima, a Manager at the City’s New Investment Division within the Economic Development Directorate, emphasised the importance of collaborative engagement.
“The participation of our key stakeholders enriches the dialogue necessary to develop a collaborative, actionable path forward. By aligning our local strategies with national reforms, we can ensure sustainable economic development for all our residents,” he said.
The event concluded with a networking session, where delegates explored opportunities for public-private partnerships aimed at accelerating economic growth in Durban.
This seminar reinforces eThekwini Municipality’s commitment to transparency, proactive economic leadership, and fostering an environment that attracts both local and global investment.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
