eThekwini's Infrastructure and Investment Drive Boosts Business Confidence

Mayor Cyril Xaba highlighted that interventions in electricity, water, and sanitation are enabling 61 designated industrial areas, home to approximately 27,000 businesses.

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality is experiencing renewed investor confidence as improved service delivery and targeted infrastructure investment begin to unlock private-sector growth and job creation. Spearheaded by the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), the city is strengthening utilities, industrial zones, and governance systems to make the region a more attractive destination for investment.

Mayor Cyril Xaba highlighted that interventions in electricity, water, and sanitation are enabling 61 designated industrial areas, home to approximately 27,000 businesses. Collectively, these enterprises generate around R9 billion annually, contributing over half of the city's total revenue.

Strategic Industrial Investments Drive Growth

Significant infrastructure upgrades in Prospecton, including roads, electricity, water, and sanitation, have encouraged major investors. Toyota, for example, has committed R10 billion to expand operations, generating more than R1 billion in annual rates revenue for the city. Similar improvements in Phoenix Industrial Park, Umbilo, New Germany, and Springfield have facilitated further private-sector investment.

The city has also established a One-Stop Shop for investors, centralising approvals for planning, transport, infrastructure, and compliance. This streamlined system aims to ensure predictable, integrated processes for projects valued at R217 billion, supported by R588 million in bulk infrastructure investment in the coming financial year.

Catalytic Projects and Job Creation

Key projects under implementation include:

• Sibaya Precinct Development (R25 billion): Mixed-use development in northern Durban featuring retail, a hospital, residential units, and a private college, projected to create 70,000 sustainable jobs.

• Birchwood Estate (R3.6 billion): Expected to generate 2,500 jobs through residential and commercial development.

• Insimbi Ridge, Cato Ridge (R10 billion): Part of the Inland Port Development to reduce Port of Durban congestion, projected to create 5,000 sustainable jobs.

Additional initiatives include Durban Film City, Durban Waterfront, Oceans Umhlanga, Brickworks, Westown/Shongweni, and Giba Business Park, all contributing to regional economic growth and employment.

Governance and Financial Management

eThekwini has achieved an unqualified audit opinion for five consecutive years, reflecting sound governance and fiscal responsibility. The city maintains a strong collection rate of 93–95%, remains current on payments to Eskom and Umgeni-uThukela Water, and continues consequence management for corruption and maladministration. Irregular expenditure is trending downward.

Mayor Xaba emphasized the critical role of collaboration under PeWG and the District Development Model, stating that social partnership and coordinated action have been essential to achieving these results.

Building Confidence for a Prosperous Future

By combining infrastructure upgrades, investor-focused reforms, and strong governance practices, eThekwini is positioning itself as a hub for industrial growth, private investment, and job creation. These efforts demonstrate how strategic interventions can restore business confidence, accelerate development, and foster sustainable economic growth in metropolitan regions.