December 2008

IbambeniFinance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

Cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal received a boost recently when their work

came under the spotlight follow-ing a regional tour by the MEC for Finance and Economic Devel-opment and Leader of Govern-ment Business, Dr Zweli Mkhize. He congratulated those enjoy-ing success as well as encour-aged those that are not yet so successful.

The departmental Coop-eratives Roadshow began on December 2, where Dr Mkhize toured more than 400 cooper-atives in the Southern Region, culminating in a stadium-packed event in Port Shepstone.

Some of the very fi rst coopera-tives visited by Dr Mkhize include the Durban-based Khanyan-jalo cooperative, an ICT-special-ist company owned and run by the young people. They provide computer training and their tar-get market is private companies, schools, government depart-ments and the public.

Then came the Gamalakhe Township mayoral award-win-ning Maluju, a crop production cooperative that is made up of five women. They specialise in growing tomatoes and spin-ach which they sell to various renowned shops, including Pick’n Pay, Hibiscus Coast Municipality and Spar supermarkets.

Also on the list was Mbu-somusha, a toilet paper manu-facturing cooperative operating from Mthwalume. Their mar-ket includes local municipalities, supermarkets, schools and the public.

This was followed by another tour in uMkhanyakude Dis-trict, north of KwaZulu-Natal on December 9, which took the same format as the Southern Region tour.

The Cooperatives Roadshows are aimed not only at congrat-ulating cooperatives that are doing well, but also of encourag-ing those that are faced with var-ious challenges as well as those who are keen to start up coop-eratives.

“It gives me great joy to see small businesses in the cooper-atives sector beginning to play a meaningful role in fi ghting pov-erty and promoting employ-ment,” said Dr Mkhize.

He said research has shown that small businesses are play-ing a vital role in the stabilisa-tion of the country’s economy and fi ghting poverty through job creation.

“There are so many peo-ple who have been able to fi nd meaningful and gainful employ-ment through small business, who otherwise would have been declared unemployable for a number of reasons including lack of skills,” said Dr Mkhize, adding that 40 % of the coopera-tives in South Africa are in Kwa-Zulu-Natal.

“It is encouraging to see peo-ple wanting to stand up and do things for themselves like coop-eratives are doing. They serve as inspiration to young people who must learn that our future will be much more secured if we go back to planting our own crops instead of relying on others. This will help us address issues of food security,” said Dr Mkhize.

Dr Mkhize said government is also mindful of challenges faced by small business, and encour-aged those who face tough times to persist. “Some small busi-nesses have gone under because of a number of factors, but pri-marily the issue of access to fi nance,” said Dr Mkhize.

He said government has come up with strategies to assist, which include agreements with some lending institutions. “We are also still appealing to big fi nan-cial institutions to revisit some of their practices, which seem to shut the door on small busi-nesses,” said Dr Mkhize.

Dr Mkhize said one of the challenges that needs to be addressed is the issue of train-ing for cooperatives to be effec-tive in what they do.

He said training will also help cooperatives to grow and be competitive.

“We are negotiating with some educational institutions in a bid to ensure that quality train-ing and relevant skills are passed on to cooperatives so that those who are currently doing well can continue to do well, and those that are not doing so well can get capacity to make their mark in the economic development of their communities and KwaZulu-Natal,” he said.

THUMBS UP FOR COOPERATIVES WHO HAVE

DONE WELL FOR THEMSELVES

Above: Ms. Shusha, Mayor of Hibiscus Coast Municipality, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Ms. Ruth Bhengu, Deputy Mayor of Ugu District Municipality while Ms. Busi

Molefe, Chairperson of Maluju Co-operative (Second from Right) explains the damage caused by the fl oods.

Below: The MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, with members of Maluju Co-operative assessing progress in the tomato garden.

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

2

KwaZulu-Natal’s eco-nomic growth can only be guaranteed by the

continued facilitation of pub-lic-private partnerships as well as the development of skills so that everyone can be afforded a chance to play an active role in positively influencing the eco-nomic development.

The provincial government is committed to ensuring that this province becomes the leading economy in this country and in the Southern African region in general.

To realise this, we are pulling out all the stops to strengthen our relations with the private sector as well as to create more business relations with the devel-oped international countries.

Part of our mission is to con-tinue to instil confi dence in our local and international investor community through Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal which is a government’s investment arm and showcase our province as investor friendly.

We are also in the process of exploring new markets with the aim of soliciting investors to part-ner local companies in the estab-lishment of operations in Kwa-Zulu-Natal.

It is in this context that we have numerous trade missions comprising government and local industry showcasing key invest-

ment opportunities within the province. Key to this initiative has been matching local companies with potential international part-ners within selected regions.

The area of skills development is also very critical in ensuring growth of the economy. Follow-ing the business tours to India, the Czech Republic and Rus-sia early this year, we have suc-ceeded in forging relations with key international academic insti-tutions to ensure that our stu-dents and small businesses get trained in the IT and textile dis-ciplines.

Bearing testimony to this, in September, already ten stu-dents from KwaZulu-Natal have already gone to the Czech Repub-lic to study textile at the Techni-cal University of Liberec – the world’s reknowned specialists in textile, with which we forged partnership.

Through another partnership between the Provincial Treasury and Ifi hlile Training Academy, 300 youth is being training on air-con-ditioning, refrigeration and con-struction. These are some of the scarce skills in South Africa and acquiring them will help open more employment opportunities for the youth and those that want to start their own businesses will now have the opportunity to do so, contributing to the develop-ment of a large pool of small

business in the province.While the economic part of

our lives looks bright and well-taken care of, it is also important to know that the political aspect is as important.

In the next few months, the country will, once again, embark upon a very critical process –elec-tions, that determines the form of government we want.

This is a process where you, the people of this country get to exercise your right to vote. It is therefore very important for all citizens to stand up and play their part in protecting our democ-racy.

One of the most important ways of protecting our democ-racy is by ensuring that we all participate in the electoral process. This right was earned through the blood of many of our people, who stood up in very trying times and ensured that we have this right to vote, so let us use it.

It is important to take advan-tage of all these economic and political developments that are presented to us because this is the only way that helps us ensure that our communities not only develop, but also position them-selves to being a positive infl u-ence in the political processes taking place in their country.

KWAZULU-NATAL REMAINS COMMITTED

TO ECONOMIC GROWTH

Dr Zweli MkhizeMEC for Finance and Economic Development

AWARDS INSERT

(1) MEC, Dr. Zweli Mkhize and Manager for Corporate Communication in the Offi ce of the MEC, Mrs. Zodumo Mbuli receiving PMR certifi cates for exceptional work by the MEC.

(2) MEC, Dr. Zweli Mkhize receiving a PMR award from the Managing Consultant of PMR, Mr. Sipho Makhanda.(3) MEC, Dr. Zweli Mkhize addressing the deligates at the PMR

Awards Ceremony held in September, Durban.

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Ibambeni

3

In Government institutions, service delivery is the pri-mary measure of success.

Public procurement refers to the purchasing of goods and serv-ices which government requires in order to deliver services to the people. This is done within the

confi nes of the following pro-curement policies :-

Supply Chain Management system signified the dawn of a new era in procurement and provisioning. It was developed in order to give effect to the pro-visions of Section 217 of the Con-stitution, which regulates pro-curement of goods or services in government, by mandating that it be done in accordance with a system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective.

Further, in giving effect to sub-section 2 of Section 217 of the Constitution, National Treasury in terms of its Subsection 217(3) obligation, issued the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA). The PPPFA thus provides for the granting of pref-erence in the procurement proc-ess to Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDIs) by means of a points system that ensures that socioeconomic objectives are addressed, it further allows for the pursuance of socio-economic goals as set out in the RDP.

Equitable support of service

providers, particularly SMMEs and Cooperatives, is at the heart of government procurement poli-cies, and to this end, KZN Provin-cial Treasury introduced a Sup-ply Chain Management Policy Framework as a tool to achieve this objective.

The Framework was designed to promote consistency in the application of preferential pro-curement objectives. The critical areas of focus were the establish-ment of a KZN supplier database and the Bids Appeal Tribunal.

The Provincial Supplier Data-base’s objective is to maintain supplier information in terms of ownership and commodities offered by all companies regis-tered thereon. This information assists the Province in identify-ing the status of companies with whom government is engaging. It further assists in analysing the Provincial government’s spend and ensuring that it is directed towards addressing the imbal-ances of the past.

Suppliers registered in the database are encouraged to ensure that they constantly

update themselves on availa-ble procurement opportunities in government by daily checking the Tender bulletin (available on the National Treasury’s website) as well as local newspapers.

The Bids Appeal Tribunal pro-vides a platform for aggrieved suppliers to appeal decisions taken during the evaluation of bids (tenders) by departments. The MEC for Finance and Eco-nomic Development , Dr Zweli Mkhize established an impartial and independent BAT consisting of members appointed from civil society. These efforts ensure that there is fair, transparent and open competition for the procurement of goods and services in the pub-lic sector.

The latest development in procurement is the promul-gation of Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (BBBEE) Codes of Good Prac-tice. Section 10 of the BBBEE Act requires that every organ of state must apply any relevant code of good practice in devel-oping and implementing a pref-erential procurement policy.

This would ultimately translate to a socioeconomic process that directly contributes to the eco-nomic transformation of South Africa as it brings about signif-icant increase in the number of black people that manage, own and control the country’s econ-omy.

Suppliers should understand that the BBBEE expands the focus from ownership as a criteria for assessing suppliers’ empower-ment status to a broader base that includes Ownership; Man-agement control; Affirmative procurement; Enterprise devel-opment; Skills development; Employment equity and Corpo-rate social investment. Suppliers are encouraged to ensure that their BEE status is verified by the relevant accreditation insti-tutions.

Supply Chain Management has reached its fifth year of implementation, and it contin-ues to evolve as our public sec-tor tries to parallel international best practices.

UNPACKING DEPARTMENT’S PROCUREMENT POLICIES

Mr Sipho ShabalalaHOD for Provincial Treasury

The demand for business advice and development services in the province

has called for the Department of Economic Development (DED) to invest around R14 million in establishing the district offi ces and this amount is expected to escalate in each fi nancial year.

The KwaZulu-Natal provin-cial government has realized the need to pull all out the stops to encourage economic develop-ment essential for the creation of job opportunities and deletion

of poverty in the province.The province is laden with

two streams of the economy – featuring the highly developed fi rst economy and the precari-ously marginal second economy in which the preponderance of the population is stuck in. How-ever, to ensure a stable and really equitable socio-economic trans-formation, the province is deter-mined to reduce or collapse the disparities between these two sections of the economy through the combination of interventions – inclusive of the promotion of skills training for the people on the periphery to be able to gain access to the lucrative and sus-tainable levels of the economy.

Through the Department of Economic Development, the government had therefore been mobilizing communities to con-sider starting their own enter-prises in the form of co-opera-tives and SMMEs – a potential move to help bridge the gap between first and second eco-nomic strands. The efforts took a quantum step four years ago when the Provincial MEC for Finance and Economic Devel-opment, Dr Zweli Mkhize urged communities to take co-oper-atives as potential means and entry points to participate actively in the province’s economy. His approach would include empow-ering aspiring entrepreneurs with

business skills and hence consid-eration for fi nancial support had to be preceded by skills train-ing in all forms of business. The move wouldn’t just assist people escape grinding poverty, but as a conduit to develop entrepreneur-ial acumen required to claim a stake in the advanced fi rst econ-omy. Many people responded positively to this noble call and were currently pursuing business ventures in various sectors of the economy.

However, to entrench the gov-ernment commitment towards the socio-economic empower-ment of the citizens, the Depart-ment had to ensure that business information and advice was read-ily available in their respective localities. Having had its head quarters located in one city, the organization has since broad-ened its service offerings by establishing offi ce outlets in dis-trict municipalities, including Dur-ban Metro. Scientifi cally referred to as One Stop Shop Business Support Centres, they are cur-rently serving as potent avenues for promoting economic growth in the communities – providing a wide range of business sup-port to emerging entrepreneurs as well as established operators seeking direction on expansion opportunities.

These centres were a precursor of future expansion of the Depart-

ment’s services in each and every corner of the province to ensure genuine economic growth and decline in the survivalist second economy. With the provision of the Conceptual Framework for KwaZulu-Natal Integrated Busi-ness Support Programme, the province is confi dent that gradu-ally more people would become practical entrepreneurs that con-tribute to the campaign to com-bat joblessness while extricating communities from poverty and other social ills. But the emphasis is on sharpening entrepreneurial skills through continuous skills training to emerging business people, especially young people to be able to run profi table and sustainable ventures – capable of standing the test of time in the highly competitive and deregu-lated global market. Meanwhile the government’s determina-tion to fast-track socio-economic change through a combination of economic permutations, includ-ing co-operatives and SMMEs has attracted interest from other social partners, especially in the private sector.

It’s envisaged that at least by 2009, each district would have as fully operational offi ce – pro-viding an integrated list of serv-ices offered by the Department. Meanwhile most of these outlets are a joint effort with other social partners such as district or local

municipalities and private sector – a demonstration of a vibrant spirit of collectivism in the proc-ess of accelerating economic development in the province. Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) is the Depart-ment’s key strategic partner and the organizations are presently complementing each rather than duplicating their resources and endeavors. Other participants include Ithala Development Finance Corporation that han-dles the co-operatives’ funding once prospective applicants have met basic conditions – including proof of business skills training offered mainly at various FETs in the province. With youth being one of designated groupings for empowerment, Umsobomvu Youth Fund are amongst some of our strategic partners as well as other fi nancial institutions such as ABSA and Standard Bank.

The Department is confi dent that the concept of One Stop Shop Business Support Cen-tres will go a long way in help-ing to develop both the SMMEs and co-operatives so that they partake meaningfully in building the economy of the province as well as eliminating poverty and unemployment.

DED GROWING ECONOMY THROUGH DISTRICT OFFICES

Ms Carol CoetzeeHOD for Economic

Development

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

4

Trade and investment opportunities for Kwa-Zulu-Natal are set to

widen as the province has stra-tegically positioned itself to work closely with Korea.

This was made clear after the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Trade and Investment KZN (TIKZN) and Korean Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) to offi cially join forces in a bid to foster strong trade and invest-ment links on the 2nd of Decem-ber, 2008 in Durban.

Led by MEC for Finance and Economic Development and Leader of Government Business,Dr Zweli Mkhize, Trade and Investment KZN (TIKZN) has continuously promoted and mar-keted investment opportunities in KwaZulu-Natal.

Speaking after the signing, Dr Mkhize said: “We are looking for-ward to this agreement between our two countries, and I am sure that it is the start of a vibrant exchange which will see more trade delegations to and from both countries”.

This MOU between KOTRA and TIKZN will serve as a cata-lyst in the marketing of opportu-nities within KwaZulu-Natal and the world leaders in the maritime industry, the Republic of Korea. TIKZN will be maximising its effort to promote KwaZulu-Natal as the premier investment des-tination as well as a leader in export trade within the Korean Market.

Dr Mkhize said a relationship already exists between South

Africa and Korea at a political level, adding what remains now is a business to business and human relationship. He also said he hopes more people in Korea will become aware of opportuni-ties that exist in KZN.

Some of the areas of collab-oration envisaged relate to the hosting of incoming missions and the facilitation of business to business interaction. KOTRA will be used as a conduit to market-ing and promoting TIKZN’s pack-aged projects to Korean Compa-nies that would have an interest in these projects

His Excellency Ambassador Han Soo K im was accompanied by the Director Gen-eral of KOTRA Mr Young Soo Kang, Mr Sung Soo PARK, First Sec-retary, Korean Embassy; Mr Yong Gang KIM, Repre-sentative of SA, Korea Develop-ment Bank; Mr Chang Mok LEE, Representative of SA, Korea Electric Power Corp and Mr Sun Mo HEO, Director, ONSE SA (Pty) Ltd.

A m b a s s a d o r Kim said Korea is a key strategic part-ner for any coun-try wanting to do business with the Far East.

He said Korea has been able to transform its economy from poor to a key global player within 14 years, and that they are keen to share their recipe for success with the rest of the world.

The ambassador promised that he will play match maker between KwaZulu-Natal and potential Korean partners.

Main picture: Korean Ambassador to South Africa, Mr. Han Soo Kim and Dr. Zweli Mkhize

holding a certifi cate that represents the signing of the MOU. First from left is Kotra Director

General, Mr. Kang and CEO of Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal, Mr. Zamo Gwala.

Above: Mr. Han Soo Kim (left) and Dr. Zweli Mkhize (right) signing the Memorandum Of

Understanding, observing closely are Mr. Kang (behind left) and Mr. Zamo Gwala

(behind right).

Left: Dr. Zweli Mkhize presents a gift to Mr. Han Soo Kim.

KWAZULU-NATAL BUILDING KWAZULU-NATAL BUILDING RELATIONS WITH KOREARELATIONS WITH KOREA

Ibambeni

5

Durban’s new Moses Mabhida Stadium has been designed as a

state-of-the-art, world-class sta-dium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, and as a multi-functional and easy-to-maintain asset for Durban. This is an asset from which every resident and rate-payer will benefi t, as the creation of this precinct means that Dur-ban will be one of the few Afri-can cities able to host most of the Olympic disciplines within a single sporting precinct. Conven-iently situated close to the city centre, and as part of the Kings Park Sporting Precinct, the Moses Mabhida Stadium will also be the ideal venue for hosting recrea-tional and cultural events.

With the construction pro-gressing rapidly, the new Moses Mabhida is already becoming a fundamental feature on the city’s landscape and is well on target for FIFA’s fi nal completion date of 31 October 2009.

Quick Facts:

• The entire stadium has been designed and built in line with all the latest safety and security requirements.

• The stadium infield has been designed and built in accordance with the lat-est international sporting codes.

• It will have the capacity to hold 70 000 spectators dur-ing the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ South Africa and 54

000 in legacy mode thereaf-ter.

• Each seat will be spacious and will have excellent site lines and ease of access is ensured, with 50% of the stadium’s seats accessi-ble from the main entrance level.

• 150 suites, housing a total of 7500 seats, will cover a range of different hospital-ity options.

• The grand centre arch, 106m high, will become a world first tourist attrac-tion, thanks to a high-tech cable car designed to take visitors up to its highest point, where they can dis-embark and take in breath-taking, panoramic views of the city. This 350m long free-span steel arch weighs 2600 tons. The roof, consist-ing of Tefl on coated glass fibre membranes - 46,000 square metres in total – are attached to the arch by 95mm diameter steel cables. Around the perime-ter of the stadium structure is an 880m long steel com-pression ring that maintains the structure of the roof.

• On big match days, Walter Gilbert Road will be closed to traffic, creating a safe pedestrian precinct.

• Durban’s People Mover bus will stop at the stadium, allowing spectators to park at one of the many parking facilities in town and get

to the stadium safely and quickly.

• A new Kings Park Railway Station is being developed adjacent to the stadium, allowing visitors direct

access to the stadium pre-cinct.

The Kings Park Sport-

ing Precinct

In 2010, Durban’s Kings Park Sporting Precinct, in which the new Moses Mabhida Stadium is located, will be an attractive destination for the city’s visi-tors. Proximity to the beach will ensure that it is the ideal venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, while its many offerings will pro-vide a central location for relaxa-tion and recreation.

The facilities that make up this multi-purpose precinct include:

• The Moses Mabhida Sta-dium, which will be able to house numerous sport-ing disciplines, including cricket, rugby, athletics and of course soccer.

• Heroes Walk, which will pro-vide stadium access from the city centre, will offer a poignant journey through Durban’s history pages, paying homage to icons of sporting culture and politi-cal change

• People’s Park will offer res-idents a central, green pub-lic area, fi lled with lawns, active spaces, promenades

and cycle tracks – the ideal place for people to meet, greet and relax

• Imbizo Place will lie at the very heart of the pro-posed precinct, forming a large public meeting place, defi ned by retail outlets and numerous restaurants

• A pedestrian link between Masabalala Yengwa Avenue (previously NMR Avenue) and the beach will be cre-ated, to offer a safe, enjoy-able walk from the beach to the precinct, thanks to the use of special lighting, street furniture and hard and soft landscaping

• A new Kings Park Railway Station will provide direct rail access to the stadium

• Restaurants situated on the stadium’s Level 5 will offer stunning beach views and a fi ne dining experience

• A hospitality area will be created on Peoples Park during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ to include a spon-sor’s village, exhibition and a broadcasters’ village

THE MOSES MABHIDA STADIUM

The construction of the grand centre arch which will stand at 106m high and will be 350m in lenght and will weight 2600 tons.

Construction to date of the Moses Mabhida Stadium for the 2010 World Cup, and shall thereafter be used for soccer, rugby, cricket and athletics.

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

6

With the year-end fast approaching, con-struction of the Dube

TradePort and International Air-port continues apace. The count-down to the fi rst fl ight in 2010 is well and truly underway!

Progress on site to date includes:

Runway:The base course of the runway

is complete and the laying of the fi rst course of asphalt has com-menced. In addition, duct laying on the primary runway is also underway.

Taxiways:Stabilised layerwork on fi ve of

the airport’s eight taxiways is pro-gressing well, while bulk earth-works are currently being com-pleted on the remaining three.

Aprons:The airport provides for a total

of four aprons. At present stabi-lised layerwork is being carried out on two of these aprons, while bulk earthworks are being fi nal-ised in the other two areas.

Main Terminal:Arrivals Level – The concrete

slab and necessary piling for the airside corridor are complete. Steelwork for the baggage-han-dling conveyors has now com-menced. Added to this is the fact that the fi xing of frames for glaz-ing has commenced on the north face of the building at the arriv-als level.

Departures Level – Work on the concrete slab is nearing comple-tion and preparations have been made for the major fi nal pouring of concrete.

In addition, the office level concrete slab is progressing on schedule.

The fi rst section of the termi-nal’s main roof trusses has been erected and the concrete slab for the airside corridor at both arriv-als and departures level in being developed.

Multi-Storey Car Park:Work on retaining walls has

been completed along with the second level concrete slab.

The ramp is currently being constructed and the erection of steel roofi ng is progressing well.

Cargo Terminal:All concrete for the building

structure has been completed. Structural steelwork is nearing completion, while layerwork for

the surface bed slab is progress-ing.

All brickwork, plastering and roof-sheeting is currently being completed. In addition, electri-cal and plumbing work has com-menced in the cargo terminal building.

Control Tower:The tower shaft is fully com-

plete, as is the installation of access stairs. Further, the erection of the steel cab – to be positioned atop the shaft – has also been completed. This structure has now been lifted off the ground to allow for its fi tting-out.

Strip footings and brickwork has commenced on the control tower building.

N2 Interchange:Bulk earthworks for the on/off

ramps are progressing well and piling for the bridge is underway. Shuttering for the western abut-ments of the bridge structure is also being carried out.

As regards the access road, bulk earthworks have been undertaken and the road is com-plete to formation level. Work on drainage, including storm-water pipe culvert preparation, is pres-ently underway.

AgriZone:Bulk earthworks for the Agri-

Zone link road are now being developed and ducting for cabling along the link road is being installed.

Trade Zone: Bulk earthworks for the Trade

Zone access road have been com-pleted and, in terms of drainage, pipe culverts are already in place and gabion embankment protec-

tion work has commenced.

Support Zone:Final trimming of the com-

pleted platform is being under-taken.

Other Infrastructure:• Crash Fire and Rescue Build-

ing – The building frame is almost complete and struc-tural steelwork erection is progressing, along with brickwork and plastering activities;

• Maintenance Buildings – The steel framework is com-plete, while brickwork, plas-

tering and the compacting of layerworks for the surface bed slabs is all progressing well;

• North Gatehouse – The building structure and frame are being developed at present;

• Refuse Sorting Buildings – The steel frames, roofing and sorting bays have all been completed;

• Fuel Farm – The erection of steel tanks is progressing well. The Western tanks are already at full height, while the Eastern tanks are cur-rently being erected;

• Main Reservoir – With the main structure complete,

work is now being under-taken on the pump station building and reservoir out-let chamber;

• Fire Reservoir – Bulk earth-works for road access to the reservoir are being com-pleted along with storm-water pipe culverts; and

• Surface-Level Car Park – The base course and kerb installation is being under-taken, while a trial section of asphalt has been laid in the passenger surface-level car park. Bulk earthworks have been completed as regards the staff surface-level car park.

DUBE TRADEPORT AND NEW AIRPORT ON TRACK

Above: Construction in progress at the new King Shaka Airport.Below: An artistic impression of what the King Shaka Airport will look like when it is completed.

Ibambeni

7

Government’s plan to fi ght poverty through the empowerment of

women, especially in rural areas, is taking shape and paying divi-dend.

One of the trailblazers is the uMlalazi based Inina Craft Agency which provides employment to about 150 women.

The agency, which counts in its distribution network countries such as Canada and Sweden, has a projected turn over of R1.2 mil-lion this year and has provided improvement in the livelihood of craft producers in the municipal area.

The agency was born out of an initiative by the University

of KwaZulu-Natal which started in 2001 to provide development support to craft enterprises in the uMlalazi Municipality. The approach was a structured busi-ness mentoring and skills devel-opment process focusing on the leadership of these enterprises.

Inina Craft Agency which has become a thriving business was established out of this process comprising the leadership of four craft producer groups. Its specifi c purpose is to market, on a com-mercial basis, the products of these enterprises and to assist these enterprises in responding to market demand.

It is formally registered as a trading cooperative and com-

prises 147 members, all of whom are women and all of whom have benefited economically from their membership. It is a regis-tered exporter, it is registered with SARS and it has a tax clear-ance certifi cate.

Inina operates from a fully equipped office facility at the training centre. Staff are compu-ter literate and are able commu-nicate by telephone, e-mail, fax and Skype with clients, custom-ers and service providers.

The Agency has the support of various partners including the Department of Economic Devel-opment, the European Union, Ford Foundation, Fuchs Founda-tion and the UKZN.

GOVERNMENT’S RURAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN TAKING SHAPE

Inina members produce bracelets for theBracelets of Hope campaign

Thursday, the December 4, marked a milestone for the people of Richmond

as they converged in the city cen-tre to offi cially open the biggest Shopping Mall in the area with a total investment of R100 mil-lion, giving hope for economic recovery after years of political violence.

The event at which the MEC for Finance and Economic Devel-opment and Leader of Govern-ment Business, Dr Zweli Mkhize delivered the keynote address, was attended by the Mayor of Richmond Municipality, Cllr Ben Ngcongo, Speaker of Richmond Municipality, Dr Andrew Ragava-loo, councillors, local politicians, business people and community members.

The construction of the Mall started late in 2006 through an investment by the Magnifi-cent Four, a 75 % BEE company which is under Isolenu Holding Group. This was after Dr Mkhize engaged the business commu-nity to invest in Richmond so that the people that had fallen victim to political violence can rebuild their lives. The actual construc-tion of the Mall cost R 55 million and tenants paid R45 million for the fi ttings the tailor-making of their shops.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Mkhize said the launch of the Mall signified the new begin-nings for the town that was rav-aged by political violence.

“This is the beginning of a new

chapter in the lives of the people of Richmond. A chapter where we will see reconciliation, peace, development and hope. This is a chapter that is going to address issues of job creation and devel-opment,” he said.

During the construction of the Mall which has a square meter-age of over 9000, 160 jobs were created and there is hope that more people are still going to be employed as more tenants will be moving in until January 2009. This will minimize the skyrocket-ing unemployment rate currently sitting at 47 %.

About 30 shops, most of whom are national tenants, a mixture of grocery, clothing, food outlets and the Post Offi ce have already moved into the Mall since Octo-ber this year, curtailing the daily movement of the local people from Richmond to Pietermaritz-burg for life necessities.

Dr Mkhize said he would like to see Richmond Municipality, Local Business and the commu-nity working together to build the town and make it an envy of other towns in this country.

The Mayor of Richmond Municipality, Cllr Ben Ngcongo, said that previously people were scared to invest in the area because of violence.

“Now that investment has started, we can look forward to seeing people’s dignity being brought back. As a municipal-ity, we are prepared to work with business to develop our area,”

he said.Dr Mkhize said there is a huge

need for more private public part-nerships that will help to recre-

ate and improve the economy of many towns in KwaZulu-Natal so that the province can be attrac-tive and ultimately become the

leading economically developed in the country.

NEW SHOPPING MALL SPELLS

NEW BEGINNINGS

FOR THE PEOPLE OF RICHMOND

Above: The MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, and Cllr. Ben Ngcongo with the staff of the new Richmond Spar.

Below: Dr. Zweli Mkhize and Richmond Mayor, Cllr. Ben Ngcongo shaking hands in front of the plaque, marking the offi cial opening of the mall.

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

8

Three hundred youth have benefi ted from the youth technical skills training

programme in refrigeration, air-conditioning and construction that was launched at the end of August, 2008.

The training programme launched by the MEC for Finance and Economic Development and Leader of Government Business, Dr Zweli Mkhize was meant to bridge the skills divide and ensure that the youth is offered a chance to be economically active.

The beneficiaries, some of whom were awarded their cer-tifi cates at the launch, vouched to use the skills to make a differ-ence. The 24-year old Nomfundo Zungu of Bonnela, near Cato Manor who was awarded a cer-tifi cate in construction said with the skills she has obtained, there will be no looking back.

“I have Matric, but it is not helping me. But with the skills I have obtained in construction, I

intend to grow and own my own construction company that will compete with other established companies out there,” she said.

The Provincial Treasury entered into a partnership with Ifi hlile Training Academy in Octo-ber 2007 to train the youth in air conditioning, refrigeration and construction. This project will see a total of 300 young peo-ple trained in batches of 100 at a time, in air-conditioning, refrig-eration and construction over a period of two years through Ifi h-lile Training Academy, the only South African Black owned insti-tution specialising in the air-con-ditioning and refrigeration.

Currently, 286 learners are being trained, of these, 19 have been successfully placed in dif-ferent companies. Seven (7) who have completed training chose to start their own small businesses which are now contracted to Ifi h-lile Training Academy.

Speaking at the launch, Dr

Mkhize said through this partner-ship, the KwaZulu-Natal Provin-cial Government seeks to effec-tively address poverty reduction, unemployment, job creation as well as socio-economic transfor-mation of the province.

He said the government recog-nises strategic skills shortages as a critical constraint to the planned growth and development of Kwa-Zulu-Natal and South Africa.

“I want to agree with the senti-ment raised that there is no short-age of jobs in South Africa but a shortage of skills,” he said.

Dr Mkhize said there is a need for a public-private intervention to ensure that the country meets its skills needs.

“In every community that I go to, the outcry is the same. People want opportunities, so we want to create opportunities for people to get employment or to employ themselves. By doing so, we will be able to leave behind a legacy of a good and stable country,”

said Dr Mkhize.Dr Mkhize said partnering with

a well established training insti-tution will enable the youth to be properly equipped to either enhance their chances of employ-ment or start their own small businesses and then be an inspi-ration to many other young peo-ple.

This training programme is in line with the one of the mandates of the provincial government- the promotion of youth development which includes the promotion of skills development for the youth in KwaZulu-Natal.

Marketing Director If ih-lile Training Academy, Ms. Ria Ledwaba said only 15% of prac-

ticing artisans in the air-condi-tioning industry have training, and the average age is 52.

“When we opened our opera-tion in KwaZulu-Natal, we called for applications and we got a total of 17 000 applicants. Unfor-tunately we had space for only 300 students,” said Ledwaba.

She said training courses offered by Ifi hlile are informed by industry needs, to ensure that qualifying students do not sit with certifi cates they cannot use.

Eighteen certificates were handed over to learners who have completed training in con-struction and air conditioning.

KZN YOUTH BENEFITS FROM

SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAMME

Nomfundo Zungu receiving a certifi cate in construction from MEC, Dr Zweli Mkhize after completing her training in construction.

A ground-breaking budg-eting system which is geared towards elimi-

nating poor planning in govern-ment was launched in August, creating a new dawn in public service budgeting in KwaZulu-Natal.

MEC for Finance and Eco-nomic Development and Leader of Government Business, Dr Zweli Mkhize led the launch of the Performance Budgeting Sys-tem (PBS) which was champi-oned by the Provincial Treasury in 2005 as a transversal system across all the departments in KwaZulu-Natal.

“With this system, we are try-ing to eliminate poor planning which affects service delivery. We want to create an effi cient machinery that helps meet our targets in terms of service deliv-ery. To do this, the main thing is proper planning and monitor-ing. It will also help us to have a budget that addresses challenges faced by the people,” Dr Mkhize said.

He said this system links pub-lic budgets to service delivery, the resource inputs which are funded by these budget alloca-tions (such as personnel, equip-ment, vehicles) and the public goods and service delivery (such as roads, primary health care, support to municipalities).

He said the system entrenches a systematic decision-making process for deciding how and where government money will be allocated.

“By taking this approach, accountabi l i ty for publ ic resources and good fi scal gov-ernance is encouraged,” said Dr

Mkhize adding that Provincial Treasury saw PBS as instrumen-tal in achieving its objective of ensuring optimum fi nancial and fi scal management in the prov-ince, by minimizing roll-overs of funds and providing early warn-ing of potential under-expendi-ture.

“With this kind of system, I think the country must wait and watch KwaZulu-Natal perform. Other provinces will have to learn from us. What is a challenge for me is the independence of mon-itoring. It is important for those that are capturing the data to be independent from those that per-form,” Dr Mkhize said.

He said the system is going to force everyone to be upgraded so they perform better.

To date, government institu-tions that have gone live on the PBS system are the Office of the Premier, the Legislature, and the departments of Economic Development, Treasury, Trans-port, Health, and Arts Culture and Tourism. The remaining gov-ernment departments are at the implementation phase.

Chairman of PBS (PTY) Ltd, Dr Iraj Abedian said without proper tools, we cannot defi ne our per-formance.

“This is a tool towards accountability which will work in conjunction with all the leg-islations that are in place which will encourage good practice,” he said.

PBS is a Management Infor-mation System which was designed and implemented by a South African company – PBS (Pty) Ltd – exclusively for all lev-els of government.

THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA IN

PUBLIC SERVICE BUDGETING

Ibambeni

9

IMBALI IMBALI SCHOOLS SCHOOLS

RENOVATIONSRENOVATIONSAbove: Dr. Zweli Mkhize & MEC for the Department of Public Works, Ms. Lydia Johnson getting their hands dirty during the hand-over of computers, paint and other donations to Mfundwenhle and Sinamuva Primary Schools in Imbali

Pietermaritzburg.

Right: MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Zweli Mkhize (left) and Station Manager for Ukhozi FM, Mr. Welcome Nzimande (right) presenting Ilyasah Shabazz (Centre, daughter of Human Rights Activist Malcom X) with

books and presents for her farewell ceremony after her visit to Durban for the South African Traditional Music Awards.

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

10

A Jozini-based group of 42 women farmers, with-out suffi cient resources

to make it in the highly compet-itive agricultural industry, have made KwaZulu-Natal proud by being crowned Top Female Farm-ers of the year, in the 2008 Land Bank-sponsored annual national competitions.

Jabulani Vegetable Associa-tion who are small scale farm-ers, beat contestants from across the country in both provincial and national competitions and crowned twice in one year as Top Female Farmers.

Entering the competitions for the fi rst time, they were crowned Top Performers in the Household Category in Newcastle in July and repeated the same feat in the national competitions in August where they walked away with the crown of the Annual Female Farmers of the Year, 2008.

MEC for Finance and Eco-nomic Development and Leader of Government Business, Dr Zweli Mkhize had a heart to heart conversation with these confi-dence-oozing women farmers with a view to encouraging more achievements from other cooper-atives in KwaZulu-Natal.

Responding to their request for assistance in securing more land to farm, Dr Mkhize, who was impressed to hear that the Asso-ciation already provides vege-tables to national chain stores, said government should be able to assist them within the next six

months.“In you, we have teachers

who will teach other coopera-tives how things should be done. What impresses me the most is that you are a cooperative of 42 people, and at best, cooperatives of fi ve people fail to reach con-sensus and start fi ghting,” said Dr Mkhize.

He also praised the members for their dedication to start work-ing without having to wait for hand-outs or government sup-port.

Dr Mkhize said government is working on plans to revive all cooperatives in the province, even the ones that faltered.

“We are working with the Uni-versity of Zululand and experts from Kenya, who are going to teach cooperatives especially in the area of saving. A coopera-tive will only survive by saving and not through debt,” said Dr Mkhize.

Dr Mkhize also said a new way of dealing with cooperatives when it comes to fi nancial institu-tions will have to be devised.

“When you take a loan from the bank, the expectation is that you have to start repaying that money before your crop has even grown. This has been one big challenge facing small business and cooperatives,” he said.

Like most rurally-based small scale farmers, the association has numerous challenges. According to Mrs Busisiwe Mngomezulu, Chairwoman of the Association,

they don’t have enough plots as they have to divide the 8 hectors among all members so that each person can get a plot.

“There are many things that we still need for us to grow in what we do. We don’t have tools such as tractors, fence, and trans-port to be able to sell our prod-

ucts else where,” she said.“We are already thinking about

graduating from being small pro-ducers to being exporters of veg-etables and compete with big business. We are dreaming of having our own farms so that we will be able to produce anything we want,” she said.

This association is in the proc-ess of registering as a coopera-tive and they see this as a step to positioning themselves properly to be able to get all the necessary help they need.

The MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Zweli Mkhize sharing a joyful moment with the memebers of Jabulani Vegetable Association. The Farmers have been crowned Provincial and

National Top Female Farmers of the Year for 2008 in the Household Category.

JOZINI-BASED WOMEN FARMERS JOZINI-BASED WOMEN FARMERS MAKE KWAZULU-NATAL PROUDMAKE KWAZULU-NATAL PROUD

Ibambeni

11

Th e K w a Z u l u - N a t a l Department of Economic Development and its

social partners in both govern-ment and private sector are mak-ing visible difference in the socio-economic profile of the vastly rural District of Sisonke on the south west of the province. Sev-eral development projects were being implemented and other were in the pipeline for consider-ation – bringing hope to this pov-erty stricken area as job oppor-tunities were being created from diverse sectors that included agribusiness, tourism and small scale manufacturing.

Through the multi-million rand Gijima KZN Local Economic Development Programme, co-funded with the European Union, the Department has been instru-mental in the establishment of the tourism driven Sisonke Steam Train to provide rail tours to some of the most attractive locations in the province. Seven rail passenger coaches had been refurbished to ferry tourists along the old rail network and infra-structure that is being revamped to connect the local municipali-ties such as Ingwe, Greater Koks-tad, KwaSani and uMzimkhulu.

To be dubbed Sisonke Express, the train is being marketed to both domestic and international travelers who are keen to get an experience of this fascinat-ing area, characterized by breath taking green topography that fea-tures the rugged mountains of the southern Drakensberg and

a wealth of historical sites. The provincial government is there-fore determined to integrate this project with other ongoing economic undertakings like the weaving studio, eatery and a his-torical gallery at Centocow. The rail project will have a butterfl y effect resulting in the creation or expansion of other enterprises, especially in the hospitality and agricultural sectors. Other towns such as Creighton, Deepdale and Underberg are positioning them-selves for the establishment of allied businesses like restaurants and overnight apartments.

Other projects being fi nanced by the Department include the establishment of a nature reserve at Ntsikeni within the uMzim-khulu local municipality. This would have two lodges and pic-nic sites that would all be fully operational at least ahead of the world cup tournament in two years time. The Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism is one of the key partners in this initia-tive and DED has since made R2, 8 million available for the project to be complemented by a cultural village with restaurants and cha-lets. Around R7 million has been put aside for the establishment of this business venture. Sev-eral activities would form part of the facility’s business and these include horse trails, research on local history and hosting of cul-tural events. The surrounding land would be used for crop and fruit production to contribute to the local economy whilst stimu-

lating job creation.The above projects are just

part of a rising figure of gov-ernment sponsored develop-ment commitments expected to energize the district’s economy to combat poverty while pro-moting real social equity in the local communities. This month was therefore targeted for the official launch of some Kwa-Zulu-Natal government funded projects in the Sisonke district – with all MECs in the Provincial Economic Cluster descending to the area to deliver projects to the locals. Around fi fty project worth an estimated R240 mil-lion would be a catalyst for the growth of the local economy. As indicated earlier the luxury steam train venture will certainly attract more tourists to the area – mainly boarding it from Pietermaritzburg before it meanders through sev-eral towns in the district.

The visit was led by MEC for Finance and Economic Devel-opment, Dr Zweli Mkhize who reminded the communities about the current global economic hardships – saying people could overcome the situation by seiz-ing business opportunities cre-ated by government. He acknowl-edged that the area was rich in agriculture and locals should produce as much food to relieve the country from imports. Mkhize indicated that the current con-struction of the Dube Trade Port on the north of Durban was offer-ing many opportunities for local producers to export fresh pro-duce to the global market. Over the past four years Dr Mkhize has mobilized poor communi-ties to get actively involved in the economy through establish-ing co-operatives in diverse sec-tors. To ensure sustainability of these budding enterprises, pro-spective co-operatives had to undergo rigorous training in all aspects of running a business before being considered for gov-ernment funding.

EMPOWERING RURAL COMMUNITIES

“Sisonke Express“ which is aimed at both domestic and international travellers, will take the passengers on a great expedition of the fascinating area.

We would like to welcome you to the second issue of Ibambeni, and we invite you to immerse yourself in it so you can find more information about the pro-grammes of the department that may be of assistance to you.

Festive season is a critical period in everyone’s life. It is time for families and rest. But more importantly, it is a period for everyone to be exemplary by not indulging too much in alco-holic beverages, drugs and avoid

behaviour that is unbecoming.More than that, it is time to

recharge so that we can resume the new year with renewed vigour, spirit and optimism.

During this festive season, let us make a difference to those that may not see or have reason to celebrate because of poverty, sickness, homelessness or any other reason.

May you all have a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.

EDITORIAL MESSAGE

SEDA KZN CONTACT DETAILS

SEDA KZN – PROVINCIAL OFFICETel: 031 277 9500Fax: 031 277 9510

Ground Floor, Kuehne & Nagel House, 381 King Dinuzulu (Berea) Road, Durban 4001

SEDA KZN – UMGUNGUNDLOVU BRANCHBranch Manager – Mr Bisson Girran

Tel: (033) 264 3100Fax: (033) 345 0574

204 Peter Kerchhoff Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201

SEDA KZN – UTHUNGULU BRANCHBranch Manager – Mr Cedric Mnguni

Tel: (035) 797 3711Fax: (035) 797 4346

ZCBF Community Park, Gate 5, South Central Arterial, Richards Bay, 3900

SEDA KZN – UGU BRANCHBranch Manager – Mrs Nokwanda Cekwana (Acting)

Tel: (039) 688 1560Fax: (039) 684 0271

46 Bisset Street, Port Shepstone

SEDA KZN – SISONKE BRANCHBranch Manager – Mrs Nomfundo Dlatu

Tel: (039) 727 1428Fax: (039) 727 1194

109 Main Street, Kokstad, 4700

SEDA KZN – UTHUKELA BRANCHBranch Manager – Mr Reggie Mpanza

Tel: (036) 631 3325Fax: (036) 631 3553

33a Diamana Road, Ladysmith, 3370

SEDA KZN – AMAJUBA BRANCHBranch Manager – Mr Thembinkosi Simelane

Tel: (034) 312 9096Fax: (034) 315 2768

33 Voortrekker Street, Newcastle, 2940

SEDA KZN – ETHEKWINI BRANCHBranch Manager – Mr Protus Madlala

Tel: (031) 277 9500

ITHALA BUSINESS CENTRES

Thabisile Mthenjane - Ulundi - 035 870 0361Sipho Nhleko - Jozini - 035 572 1567

Sbusiso Chiliza - Treasury PMB - 033 897 4548Jabu Madonsela - Umgeni - 031 309 1073Lungile Ngema - Newcastle - 034 312 2920Lucus Mbatha - Ladysmith - 036 637 8410

Lwazi Nhlapho - Langalibalele St PMB - 033 345 8351Mgcini Mbele - Portshepstone - 039 682 3254

Editor and Writer

Musa CebisaTel: 033 846 6986 / Fax: 033 846 6801/2

Email: musa.cebisa@kzntreasury.gov.za

Contributions

Regi Khumalo, Joanne Winter, Andile Khoza, Boyce Mntambo,

Vuyo Mvoko, Perusha Naicker, Khanyi Zungu

Manager

Corporate CommunicationsZodumo Mbuli

Layout and Design

MediaCom SATel: 033 394 0043/4 / Fax: 033 394 0046

Email: pubeye@mweb.co.zaWebsite: www.mediacomsa.co.za

EDITORIAL TEAM

Offi ce of the MEC for Finance and Economic Development330 Langalibalele Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201Tel: 033 846 6800 / Fax: 033 846 6801/2

Finance and Economic DevelopmentPROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL

Office of the MEC

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

12

Thousands of sport-loving youth in KwaZulu-Natal stand to benefi t from the

soon-to-be constructed world-class academy in the peri-urban Willowfountain, outside Pieter-maritzburg.

The construction, due to start before the end of this year, 2008 was made possible with the dona-tion of R500 000 by the National Lottery Distribution Fund, which will contribute towards the fi rst phase of the construction at Ikusaselihle High School.

MEC for Finance and Economic Development and Chairman of the 2010 Soccer World Cup Polit-ical Oversight Committee, Dr Zweli Mkhize was invited at the offi cial handing-over of the spon-sorship which was accompanied by the sod-turning ceremony. The event was also attended by mem-bers of the community and busi-ness leaders who pledged more physical and monetary support for the school.

The sponsorship is for the building of an academy for sport-ing excellence in this peri-urban community in the form of a multi-purpose centre, catering for vari-ous sporting codes.

The planned academy is going to benefit not only pupils of Ikusaselihle High School, but all

talented youth from the province and outside with the intention of developing sporting talent that will help brighten their future.

School principal, Eric Nkwanini said construction is to begin this month, adding that there has been support from various other sponsors for the programme.

Addressing delegates, Dr Mkhize, who is also the chair-man of the 2010 Political Over-sight Committee, said the build-ing of the Academy will help many young people realize their sporting talent and use it to bet-ter their lives.

“The aim is to ensure that young people who will get trained here will be ready for the international stage. You are going to get many more young people waiting in line wanting to get into the academy,” said Dr Mkhize.

Dr Mkhize said sport is very important in terms of building national pride and in making peo-ple forget the fi ghts of the past.

“We want to see this centre guide young people away from the life of crime and drugs,” said Dr Mkhize.

Dr Mkhize said he was also very pleased with the progress made by the school, recounting the situation he found the school under when he returned from

exile in the 90s.“There was this big confron-

tation between some learners and teacher. The learners on one side are saying ‘pass one pass all, with the teachers saying ‘no, it doesn’t work that way’,” said Dr Mkhize.

He said the whole commu-nity was under a cloud of vio-lence, and the school had a pop-ulation of 360 learners. But when the community came together to solve the problems, the learner number quickly grew to 750, and is currently over 1000.

Dr Mkhize said there is a lot of talent that needs to be unearthed and used for the ben-efi t of the province and country as a whole.

The Academy will offer sport-ing codes such as soccer, volley-ball, netball and basket ball.

National Lottery Distribution Fund representative, Aleck Skho-sana said the Lotto is willing to continue helping, provided the money is used correctly and is accounted for.

Wearing the cap of the KZN Sports Academy, Skhosana pledged 2 soccer kits and 44 balls for the school’s Under 14 team.

Other pledges came from Gama Classic Funeral, which promised R10 000 in computers

and the establishment and main-tenance of the school’s own web-site; school fees and uniforms for ten learners, and assistance for the school’s gospel choir from Themba Njilo’s Induduzo Funeral

Service.Dr Mkhize’s wife, Dr May

Mashego, also pledged a R10 000 donation to the school.

WORLD CLASS SPORTING ACADEMY AT WILLOWFOUNTAIN,

PIETERMARITZBURG

From left to right: School Principal, Mr. Eric Kwanini, School Teacher, Mr. Mduduzi Madlala, National Lottery Distribution Fund representative, Mr. Aleck Skhosana, Dr. May Mashego and MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Zweli Mkhize during the handover of the R500 000 cheque to Ikusaselihle Sports Academy.

Director of Sports Section in the Department of Education, Miss Nomusa Muthwa, MEC for Finance and Economic Development,

Dr. Zweli Mkhize, his wife Dr. May Mashego, School Principal, Mr. Eric Kwanini, Development coach at Mamelodi Sundowns, Mr. Simon Ngomane and School Teacher, Mr. Mduduzi Madlala

during the sod-turning ceremony.