Ramaphosa Urges Stronger Partnership Between Government and Business for Durban’s Development

Building Bridges for Durban’s Economic Future

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a transformative partnership between government and business in Durban, moving from mere consultation to a relationship defined by mutual trust, accountability, and action. The President delivered this message at the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s 170th anniversary celebration, framing such collaboration as crucial to Durban’s resurgence as an economic powerhouse.

Moving Beyond Crisis to Long-Term Growth

Ramaphosa emphasised that the days of crisis management must give way to a forward-looking agenda: “We must move beyond responding to crises and begin shaping an ambitious future for this city.” His vision for Durban is clear a future where the city recaptures its status as a preferred site for industrial investment and economic opportunity.

The President pointed to eThekwini’s own experience as evidence that partnerships between government and business can deliver tangible progress, suggesting this example could inspire other regions across South Africa. He outlined ambitions for Durban’s port and logistics network to rank among the most efficient nationwide, underlining the city’s pivotal role as a driver for tourism, manufacturing, and small business growth.

Ensuring Inclusive Economic Progress

Ramaphosa stressed that true economic progress is measured not by the success of large enterprises alone, but by the opportunities available to the broader community particularly young people, women, people with disabilities, and small and medium enterprises. He advocated for enhanced support for township and rural businesses, noting eThekwini’s unique blend of urban and rural assets as a strategic advantage.

The President highlighted that sustainable prosperity depends on extending economic participation to all segments of society, ensuring that growth not only increases investment but also uplifts communities across the region.

Stability as a Pillar for Growth

Addressing broader challenges, Ramaphosa made clear that economic development cannot take root without stability and respect for the rule of law. He referenced the unrest of July 2021 as a stark reminder of the destructive cost of instability, urging that businesses and communities alike invest in safeguarding democratic institutions.

“There can be no justification for violence, for looting or destruction of property,”

he asserted, in light of recent violent incidents and attacks on businesses in various regions.

The President further condemned the misuse of concerns around illegal immigration as a rationale for criminal acts or divisiveness in communities, reaffirming South Africa’s foundational values of human dignity, equality, and the rule of law. He reiterated government’s duty to protect the safety, rights, and livelihoods of every citizen, ensuring that businesses can operate securely.

The Approaching Local Government Elections

With local government elections imminent, Ramaphosa urged all eligible South Africans to participate, describing these elections as the arena where the ideals of democracy are realised through effective service delivery and local economic advancement.

He underscored the importance of electoral participation in shaping responsive local governance and economic opportunities at the community level.

Honouring Durban’s Chamber of Commerce

As the Durban Chamber celebrated its 170-year legacy, Ramaphosa reflected on the foresight of its founders, highlighting that their true legacy lies in sustaining a spirit of common purpose and enterprise. He called on the Chamber to reinforce its efforts to champion investment, represent small businesses, and foster deeper public-private cooperation.

In closing, Ramaphosa’s address served as both a tribute to Durban’s business heritage and a rallying call for collective action:

• Advance trust and accountability between sectors
• Prioritise stability and the rule of law
• Support inclusive growth, benefiting all communities
• Encourage civic engagement through voting

Together, he argued, these priorities can help secure Durban’s status as a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient economic centre for generations to come.